Djokovic a 'better player than ever' believes Wilander: "It's not Nadal or Federer but the game's moved and I think he's better"
ATPSunday, 16 July 2023 at 12:07
Mats
Wilander stated that Novak Djokovic is a better player now than ever, even when
he is not playing against Rafael Nadal or Roger Federer.
The former
world No. 1, Mats Wilander, commented on the level that 'Nole' has shown in his
journey to the Wimbledon final. Novak Djokovic faced Jannik Sinner in the
semifinals and displayed a superlative performance to defeat the young Italian
6-3, 6-4, 7-6.
Wilander, a
7-time Grand Slam champion, compared Djokovic's match against Sinner with the
one he had in the French Open semifinals against Carlos Alcaraz a month ago, a
match that ended with Djokovic's victory 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1
“I rate
this performance in a similar fashion [to when] he did what he did against
Carlos Alcaraz in the French Open,” said Wilander to Eurosports.
“I think he
has realised, and he’s played enough tough matches like the one last year here
against Sinner, that these guys are good, they hit the ball really hard –
harder than Rafa [Nadal], Roger [Federer] and Andy [Murray] did, much harder,”
he added.
"Is he a better player now than ever?, i would have to say that he is," Wilander considers that Djokovic's game has evolved.
“They take
it early and I think he’s realized that a human being cannot withstand that all
the time. I feel like he goes a little bit more aggressively from the beginning
and puts Sinner on his heels. It’s tough for Sinner to get any grip with his
footing once he’s defending.
“I think
for Novak it’s all by design. Is he a better player now than ever? I would have
to say that he is. It’s not Nadal and Federer he’s playing against, but the
game’s moved in that direction and I think he’s better,” claimed Wilander.
The Serb
will face world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz in the final, where they will not only
compete for the title but also for the top spot in the rankings. If Djokovic
wins the trophy again, he will surpass the Spanish player in the ATP ranking.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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