Novak Djokovic may not consider Rafael Nadal a threat anymore says Jimmy Connors: "Compared to the other guys, Tsitsipas or Zverev or Carlos"
ATP
Jimmy Connors has contemplated that Novak Djokovic may not still consider Rafael Nadal as a threat any more as the Australian Open draws closer with the Spaniard deciding against playing in Melbourne due to injury.
Nadal came back at the Brisbane International and had the tennis world wondering again if he could trouble the dominance of the 24-time Grand Slam champion, but that was slammed shut for now as due to a micro tear in his thigh, he had to withdraw. But in Connors' point of view, he believes that Djokovic may see Tsitsipas, Zverev and Alcaraz as more of a threat than his fellow former Big Three rival.
"With him out, what does that do to Djoker? Does that open the door for him even more without having to worry about Nadal or if he even thought about that or considered that?" Connors said on Advantage Connors.
"Because he’s been out there grinding and playing and having success and he understands just what that means, and it would be interesting to hear his thoughts if he even would’ve considered Rafa a threat," he continued.
"Compared to the other guys, Tsitsipas or Zverev or Carlos and what they have to offer as younger players so it would be interesting to hear his thoughts. I don’t know if they talk about it much but somebody should ask him like ‘With Rafa out how does that change your thinking or your feelings or does it? Did it even matter?"
But Jimmy Connors' son Brett takes a different point of view with it all and believes later in the year it could change. "I’m sure any time he’s on the other side of the net, I’m sure he knows he’s a threat. As far as being ready to go five sets at a Grand Slam, I don’t know if he was yet, but that doesn’t mean he can’t be later in the year.
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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