Former Russian tennis player Nikolay Davydenko believes that
the current world number one
Novak Djokovic is beating the younger player ‘psychologically’.
The 36-year-old is regarded as the greatest player in the
history of men’s singles tennis in the Open era, having won as many as 24 Grand
Slam titles in his illustrious career. Djokovic had a fabulous time on the
court in 2023 where he ended up winning three out of the four major titles.
Those results were a surprising one considering how many
predicted that the Serbian tennis legend was expected to have a downfall in 2023.
Davydenko was recently quoted in a report where he highlighted how Djokovic is
still getting the better of much younger players despite playing in his late
30s.
"This person [Djokovic] is unique to me,” said the
42-year-old. “He plays with the skill that he has accumulated over the entire
time when he even played with us - with Federer, Nadal, with me. Novak always
adhered to his physical characteristics and tried to maintain strength and
concentration. And he understood that he was beating everyone with his tennis.
"The Big Three generation used to be a little stronger.
Even Alcaraz, who, like Nadal in his youth, is a good runner, in tennis terms I
can’t say that he exceeds expectations. If Djokovic gets into shape, even
without playing a few tournaments, without injury, he is physically ready.
“It’s more important that you have enough strength for every
match. And if they are, his concentration will be much higher than others. That's
why they are afraid of him. Plus, the fear remains: Djokovic also beats the
younger generation with his head - they are already psychologically losing to
him. 'Ah, Djokovic, that’s all!' And Novak dominates thanks to this. What he
does is unique. One might say, the only one like this so far."