Mary Joe Fernandez believes Novak Djokovic is still the man to beat on the ATP Tour and noted that a healthy Djokovic will be an extremely difficult opponent in 2023. Djokovic, 35, enjoyed a very triumphant in Australia, having won back-to-back titles at the Adelaide International and Australian Open.
Djokovic, who is 12-0 at the start of the 2023 season, is expected to return to action later this month in Dubai. “He’s definitely the one to beat every time he steps onto the court. He just seems to find that next gear when he needs it most.
He gets you from both ends. His serve is a sneaky good weapon now. That’s the best shot in the game. Nobody returns better than Novak Djokovic. He’s going to be tough to beat this year if he stays healthy,” Fernandez said on the Holding Court with Patrick McEnroe podcast, as quoted on Sportskeeda.
Fernandez says Djokovic is still the man to beat on the Tour
After winning a record 10th Australian Open title, Djokovic underlined that he is still very motivated and determined to achieve success. “Of course, I’m motivated to win as many as possible.
These trophies are the biggest motivational factor. I never like to compare myself to others but of course it’s a privilege to be part of the discussion as one of the greatest players of all time. I still have a lot of motivation.
Let’s see how far it takes me. I don’t want to stop here, I feel great about my tennis. I know that when I’m feeling good, I have a chance to win any Slam against anybody, so I like my chances going forward – but nothing is for granted,” Djokovic said after winning the Australian Open.
By winning the Australian Open, Djokovic tied Rafael Nadal on the all-time Grand Slam record list with 22 Grand Slams. Djokovic’s next big goal will be to win his third French Open title this year and make it past Nadal on the all-time Grand Slam record list.
