Goran
Ivanisevic chose Novak Djokovic as the favorite for the US Open after winning
the gold medal at the Olympic Games. The former coach of Djokovic closely
followed the Serbian's journey in Paris 2024 and acknowledged his excitement
after Djokovic's 'sweetest' success.
The former
world No. 2 commented that when Djokovic sets his mind to it, "nobody can
beat him" and noted that it wouldn't surprise him to see Djokovic
competing at the Olympics again in Los Angeles 2028, even though Nole will be
41 years old by then.
Ivanisevic predicts US Open glory for Djokovic
Despite the
doubts surrounding Djokovic after an irregular season, the victory over Alcaraz
revitalized his career: "Only a crazy person would say that he doesn’t
have it in him anymore," Goran Ivanisevic told Tennis Majors. "When
he really wants it, nobody can beat him, regardless of who is across the net."
“Novak
didn’t show up in the Wimbledon finals, but here you could tell...If they
stayed for five more hours on that court, the outcome would have been the same.
Novak was flying, Novak was dancing,” his former coach added. “People forgot
that this was his first Olympics final, he felt that this is it, that he has to
seize this opportunity. Although, considering how crazy he is, it wouldn’t
surprise me to see him in Los Angeles in 2028 as well.”
Ivanisevic
worked with Djokovic for five years as part of his team, during which time Nole
won 10 Grand Slam titles. They decided to part ways this year, although both
acknowledged they maintain a close and friendly relationship.
Novak Djokovic after beating Carlos Alcaraz in the final.
“I am so
glad that he finally won this gold,” commented the 2001 Wimbledon champion. “I
wish him the 25th Slam, to break the absolute record, and then he can retire,
although he will never retire, this guy. I think he can find the motivation,
the gold will lift him.”
“If he
plays like this, he is the man to beat at the US Open. At Wimbledon, it was a
miracle that he even played, let alone reached the finals, but we never know if
something similar to this year’s Australian Open can happen. Against Sinner
there, he didn’t show up – we don’t have a crystal ball, but if he is motivated
like here, he will be the favorite in New York.”
“This is
just incredible, it was written somewhere that it had to happen like this,”
said Ivanisevic. “First trophy this season – Olympic gold! This scenario is the
best, the sweetest. Injury, surgery, bad Wimbledon final, but on Sunday we saw
what will and desire can make you do. When Novak plays the way he can, he is
the best in the world, nobody can touch him,” Ivanisevic concluded.
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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