MELBOURNE: Tennis legend Rod Laver has proposed that it might be time for engravers to inscribe Novak Djokovic’s initials on the Australian Open trophy, emphasizing the need for something “miraculous” to prevent the Serbian sensation from clinching his 11th title.
Laver, the unique player to achieve the feat of winning all four singles Grand Slams in the same calendar year twice, showered praise on the extraordinary Djokovic, describing him as “amazing.” Laver admitted that he would be genuinely surprised if anyone managed to defeat the Serbian star.
Speaking to Australian media upon his arrival at the tournament from his California residence, the 85-year-old icon expressed admiration for Djokovic’s comprehensive skills, noting his precise understanding of when to deploy various shots. Laver remarked that Djokovic is meticulously preparing himself for a triumphant journey to the final.
Laver, honored with the naming of the Australian Open’s center court, highlighted Djokovic’s exceptional athleticism and tennis intelligence, stating that the unfolding of the game seems almost predetermined for him. The 11-time Grand Slam winner from Australia emphasized Djokovic’s status as a great champion with an unbeatable serve and ground strokes.
In a nod to Djokovic’s potential victory, Laver humorously suggested that engravers could begin etching a portion of Djokovic’s initials on the trophy. If Djokovic fulfills Laver’s expectations, he would secure his 25th Grand Slam, surpassing Margaret Court’s all-time record.
While Djokovic faced challenges, dropping sets in his first two matches at Melbourne Park due to being under the weather, the 36-year-old rebounded to secure a place in the fourth round, where he is set to face French 20th seed Adrian Mannarino.
