Andy Roddick has revealed the Djokovic trait that continually amazes him and that is – likewise Serb’s all-time rivals Federer and Nadal – his ability to “instantly pick up right from where he left off” after taking a break from the hectic ATP tour.
The 40-year old believes that the 36-year old “makes it look way easier than it actually is” when returning to action and playing at highest levels.
23-time Grand Slam champion Novak pulled out of Toronto Masters due to fatigue and appeared in his first tournament at Western and Southern Open since losing the 5-set Wimbledon final to Alcaraz.
The legendary hardcourt specialist has displayed impressive form at Cincinnati Masters as he downed a physically struggling Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the opener. After forcing Fokina to retire, the 10-time champion at Melbourne Park, thrashed Gael Monfils 6-3, 6-2 for the 19 straight victory against Frenchman. By extending his perfect record, the 36-year-old broke Nadal’s record of most victories against another Frenchman Richard Gasquet (18-0).
After his record shattering win, Roddick showered plaudits on the level of tennis Djokovic is showcasing in Cincinnati Open.
“Novak’s record against Gael Monfils can almost legally drink in this country,” the former world No 1 joked during a discussion on Tennis Channel Live.
“Okay, jokes aside, it was no fault of Monfils’. It was clinical from Novak, sharp from start to finish. I’m continually amazed at how Novak can stop and start his season, as we’ve seen in the last three, four years.
“He can instantly pick up right from where he left off. He makes it look way easier than it actually is. He struck the ball beautifully tonight.”
As well as the 2003 US Open Champion, former WTA #6 Chanda Rubin was also gave Serbian great’s complete game a thumps up.
“Yeah it’s tough when you have a match-up like that where you’re almost out of the match before you even start. And you look at the skillset of Novak Djokovic, his ability to play disciplined, controlled tennis, the speed, the movement around the court,” said the American.
“He can match up with Monfils in all those areas, but he’s got another gear to go to. And it’s just a tough match-up at the end of the day. Hopefully Monfils stays healthy because it’s been a joy to watch him play, watch him go to work. But this match-up is a tough one.”
Djokovic will now face ATP #17 seed for another Masters 1000 final as he bids to clinch a third title in Cincinnati after lifting trophies in 2018 and 2020.