'His tennis hasn't dropped' - Patrick Mouratoglou pushes back at criticism received over comments regarding Novak Djokovic

Renown coach Patrick Mouratoglou was under fire for recent comments he made regarding Novak Djokovic, when the Frenchman hinted at the Serbian's motivation not being strong enough to push him to another Grand Slam title. After receiving backlash from fans of the former World No.1, Mouratoglou took the time to elaborate on his comments.

Although Djokovic holds the record for most Major trophies at 24, the Belgrade native has not won a Grand Slam title since the 2023 US Open. Djokovic came close at last year's Wimbledon, falling to Carlos Alcaraz. However, the 38-year old has failed to reach a Grand Slam final in the past 12 months, falling in the semifinals of the Australian Open and French Open this year.

Mouratoglou clarifies his previous comments

The former coach of WTA legend Serena Williams had stated Djokovic’s motivation has waned to a point that he will not win another Grand Slam title. However, after negative feedback from fans, Mouratoglou was forced to explain his comments.

"Next time you’re asked if Novak can win a 25th Grand Slam, think about it, what did he just show us in Paris?” began Mouratoglou on LinkedIn. "Ten days before Wimbledon, a tournament he’s won seven times, reaching the final in six of the last editions; there’s one thing I’m sure of: Novak Djokovic’s tennis is still there. But is his fire?

“After a shaky clay season, Novak made it all the way to the Roland Garros semifinals, beating top players like Zverev and pushing world No 1 Jannik Sinner in a tight three-set match. Technically, physically, he’s still at the level.
“Let’s be clear: his tennis hasn’t dropped. He’s still capable of producing the precision, variation, and timing that made him one of the greatest players in history."

Additionally, Mouratoglou pointed out how Djokovic could still maintain his physicality against his peers on tour.

"Physically, he was also there," added the coach. "Moving well, defending with incredible elasticity, and holding intensity for four full sets. Yes, he can still prepare better, and the lack of matches earlier in the clay season did affect him. “But his body handled more than three hours at Roland Garros, that’s no small feat.
“What stood out to me in that semi final wasn’t just the quality of the rallies, it was the body language. The Novak I’ve known, coached against, and admired for two decades was always a beast on the court, fueled by an inner fire to prove the world or himself wrong, to dominate, to win at all costs."