Novak Djokovic’s recent decline in form has been widely discussed, especially coming off one of the best years of his career. Tennis critics and pundits are analyzing this situation closely, and even former World No. 1 Andy Roddick has weighed in with his perspective.
Ever since his Australian Open semi-final loss to Jannik Sinner, the Serbian has still not tuned in to his best. He even lost very early at the Indian Wells Masters and followed that up with another semi-final run in Monte Carlo. Even though Djokovic lost by a close margin, many unforced errors got him some unwanted criticism.
In a recent episode on the Tennis Channel, American pro-Andy Roddick gave an in-depth analysis of Djokovic’s recent defeat in Monaco. Starting from his endurance to his shots, the American had a few words about the current World No. 1. The Serbian did miss some easy shots which didn’t slipped from Roddick’s eyes.
In the first set, he looked exhausted. The rally would go past seven or eight balls and he was physically exhausted. We’re talking a 72° (F) day, 2,3-all in the first set or just a break down early, and then he kind of found his pacing, and came back. Then in the last game, he misses a first ball, misses a high volley by seven or eight feet. So, it was like, you’re supposed to know what’s going to happen based on history and it just didn’t. It felt like he was searching for something the whole week.
Andy Roddick via Tennis Channel
Roddick pointed out that Djokovic has not been at his peak fitness level and has shown signs of emotional strain during matches. Additionally, Roddick believes Djokovic is searching for something, a hint at a lack of focus.
Despite his disappointing run at the Monte Carlo Open, Novak Djokovic continues to break records
Despite his current drop in form, Nole continues to break multiple records. Courtesy of a semi-final run in Monaco, the Serbian has assured himself the World No.1 spot for another month.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion will now be World No.1 until mid-May, which may help him surpass 425 weeks as World No.1. Also, the gap between him and Sinner increases with every passing tournament. Nonetheless, the French Open looms ahead and Djokovic would hope to defend his title.
While Djokovic himself is disappointed with his recent performances, he is hopeful of improvement in the coming months. He is aiming for strong showings at the Paris Olympics, awaiting to add the missing ‘gold’ in his kitty, and upcoming tournaments, with a track record of bouncing back strongly from setbacks.
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