“It means I have been enjoying fairly a very long time,” Djokovic stated. “And in addition, I imply, 19 occasions, I imply, that is a terrific stat. In all probability virtually as a lot as [Jannik] Sinner and [Carlos] Alcaraz have years of their life.”
Not fairly. Sinner is 23, whereas Alcaraz is 22.
Youthful gamers like Sinner and Alcaraz, who’ve mixed for eight Grand Slam titles, are actually Djokovic’s greatest competitors. Regardless of that, he would not appear to envy them. As a substitute, he mentors them.
“He is essential for me as a participant and an individual,” Sinner, who used to coach with Djokovic in Monaco, stated earlier than Wimbledon, by way of The Athletic’s Matthew Futterman. “I used to be fortunate sufficient to observe with him after I was very younger in Monaco. Each time after I requested questions, he answered me in a really trustworthy approach.”
When requested why he mentors younger gamers on the French Open in June, Djokovic stated he at all times needed older gamers to do the identical for him firstly of his profession.
“What is the worth of data and expertise that you’ve when you do not switch it to somebody who’s arising?” the 24-time Grand Slam champion stated, per Futterman.
This doesn’t suggest he is occupied with retirement.
“I do not pause to mirror, to be trustworthy. I haven’t got time,” Djokovic stated Thursday. “I wish to. However I believe that is going to return most likely after I set the racket apart, after which sip margaritas on the seaside with [Roger] Federer and [Rafael] Nadal and simply mirror on our rivalry and all the things.”
Why would he mirror when he is nonetheless probably the greatest gamers on this planet? In his match Thursday, he hit 46 winners, whereas Evans had 19.
Djokovic is slated to face Miomir Kecmanovic on Saturday, the place the tennis sage may proceed to showcase his knowledge.
