“This was a guy who had limited options”: Jim Courier compares Djokovic and Andre Agassi after big Aussie Open victory

Jim Courier explained why Novak Djokovic's performance against Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open quarterfinals reminded him of Andre Agassi. The former world No. 1 from the U.S. was impressed by the Serbian's level of play as he advanced to his 12th AO semifinal, a stage where he has claimed 10 titles.

Since the draw was revealed, fans had expected Djokovic and Alcaraz to meet again, though earlier than they’re used to. The 24-time Grand Slam champion showcased his experience in a comeback after losing the first set, securing a match with Alexander Zverev in pursuit of another final.

Courier sees Agassi in Djokovic's stunning quarterfinal victory 

Courier, a two-time Aussie Open champion and Eurosport commentator, compared Djokovic's performance to that of another former world No. 1 and Melbourne champion, Andre Agassi, with whom he briefly worked as a coach between 2017 and 2018.

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One of the main talking points after Djokovic's victory was the physical issues he experienced in the first set. Apparent thigh discomfort troubled him, but after receiving medical attention and painkillers, he gradually found his best form, winning the next three sets 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4.

“Generally speaking, we have just seen what Novak could have played like for his entire career,” Courier stated on Eurosport. “If he decided that he wanted to return like Andre Agassi, I guess he could have! That’s what it looked like tonight. It was born out of necessity. This was a guy who had limited options once the injury took place.”

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“And Alcaraz is so difficult to hit through, and the conditions were cooling down throughout the night, but Novak’s forehand just lit it up,” added the four-time Grand Slam champion. “He was ripping the ball. All of that vast wealth of experience he has earned over the course of his career is coming to fruition here. Alcaraz and Djokovic offering another unforgettable experience as a tennis fan.”

Djokovic will return to Rod Laver Arena on Thursday to face world No. 2 Alexander Zverev. If overcoming Alcaraz was challenging, the German won't be an easy opponent either. Djokovic leads their head-to-head 8-4, but Zverev has been playing at an impressive level over the past year, with a devastating serve. It will be interesting to see how Djokovic’s physical issues evolve and whether Zverev can step up in his quest for a first major title.

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