Novak Djokovic’s rapid descent from the summit of world tennis has been a topic of discussion for tennis fans all over the world. The former world number one has been on a dreadful run of form for the past year as he has seen Andy Murray claim the world number one ranking. But his peers still rate him highly and believe that he will will bounce back soon enough. So much so that Stan Wawrinka believes Djokovic is similar to Nadal and Federer.
‘It’s happening the same thing that happened to Rafa [Nadal] and Roger [Federer] before. He is going through a complicated situation, but he is lucky enough not to have serious injuries. I am sure he will come back and will win Grand Slams again. When? I don’t know, maybe in a few months, but he will definitely get another great win again’, Wawrinka told El Pais.
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When asked about whether the Fab Four will continue playing for the foreseeable future Wawrinka had this to say.
‘Fab Fours won almost all the Major titles in the last decades, so I don’t see any of them playing as World No. 20 o 30… they have been at the top for many years. You will have to look at what Rafa does. After having several injuries he is back at his best level, I never had any doubt on his come back, I have been knowing him since we were kids, and also Roger. I think that facing these great Champions is a big opportunity for us.’
When asked about who would be his perfect tennis player,
‘I would choose Novak’s return, Novak and Roger’s backhand, Rafa’s body and Roger’s serve. And my backhand? I do not choose it because it’s better to have a two-handed one in the return.’
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When asked about how long does he see himself playing tennis,
‘Until when I feel well. I still have the feeling to be young and that I can compete at this level. For ten years I have been World No. 10-20 in the rankings, now I have been in the top 10 for four years. I know I am getting older, that I have to be more careful in some things physically, but I am very motivated and I think I can reach my ultimate level.’
‘Of course. You notice the difference. When you win a Grand Slam and you are consistently in the top 5, people and opponents see you differently. There are more people who want to see you and know what you do. Your life as tennis player completely changes. There is more attention and respect.’
