Novak Djokovic is aiming to win a record-extending 11th Australian Open title. Still, tennis legend Jimmy Connors believes it’s difficult, reiterating fellow American John McEnroe’s view that the Serb’s age is a significant hurdle for him. The 38-year-old has started his journey in Melbourne in emphatic fashion, cruising through the first two rounds without dropping a set.
Connors feels that Djokovic’s age could hinder his chances of winning the title and staying competitive in a field filled with young and promising players. Connors made the comments on the latest episode of the “Advantage Connors” podcast.
“Djokovic has gone about it the right way, but if he goes through two or three tough matches, that begins to take a toll on your physical. And then, if you push yourself to be better than you are, it hits you mentally. So, it all turns into one big show of ‘What’s left?’ You are giving your physical, you are giving your mental, there is only one thing left, your heart,” Connors said.
“Playing against guys that are 15-20 years younger is tough. I know you go and give everything you have, but the end result is that age gets everybody somewhere. I looked at it, like it was the most important thing at the time, and if they look at it like that, just go and grind and give it everything that you have, and that’s all you can do,” he added.
Why Does John McEnroe Feel Novak Djokovic Cannot Win Another Grand Slam Title?
Before Connors, it was McEnroe who cast doubts over Djokovic winning another Grand Slam title, given the age factor and the fast-changing dynamics of the men’s tennis competitive field. McEnroe’s comments came during an exclusive interview with TNT Sports.
“He looked amazing for 38, I’ll tell you that. Winning early is the most important factor. We say that now, but remember the US Open, he did exactly that, and then he had two days off before he played the semis, and he looked spent. So, I don’t know if it matters that much,” McEnroe said.
“If you’re one of the top guys, you don’t want to play a couple of best-of-five-set matches in the first week, and your energy’s gone the second week in his heart of hearts, and in my opinion, no. [McEnroe on Djokovic winning another Major] I don’t think he can beat both of those guys [Sincaraz] when he has already had to go through five matches, that’s the problem,” he added.
Djokovic defeated Pedro Martinez 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 in the first round, while he took down Francesco Maestrelli 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 in the second round. Next, he will go up against Botic van de Zandschulp at the Rod Laver Arena on Saturday.
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