“Can Still Win a Major” – Andy Roddick Backs Novak Djokovic to Win Another Major, Compares His Adaptation to Agassi and Federer
“Can Still Win a Major” – Andy Roddick Believes Novak Djokovic Can Secure His 25th Grand Slam, Drawing Parallels to Federer and Agassi
Despite a setback in his pursuit of a 100th career title, Novak Djokovic is not ready to be written off. After his Miami Open semi-final loss to rising star Jakub Mensik, the Serbian tennis icon reflected on his journey and his pursuit of a milestone victory. However, Andy Roddick, the former US Open champion, believes Djokovic still has the potential to win his 25th Grand Slam, offering strategic advice grounded in the evolution of two tennis legends: Roger Federer and Andre Agassi.
While Djokovic’s dreams of capturing his 100th ATP title were dashed by Mensik, the 24-time Grand Slam champion displayed grace and sportsmanship in defeat. After the loss, he praised the 19-year-old Czech’s performance, acknowledging his impressive serving and improved forehand. Despite the disappointment, Djokovic handled the loss with humility and reflected on the narrow margins that separated him from victory.
In a recent episode of his podcast Served with Andy Roddick, the former American tennis star gave his perspective on Djokovic’s future. Roddick suggested that, much like Federer and Agassi, Djokovic may need to adapt his game as he enters the later stages of his career. “He can still win a major, especially on surfaces that give him a more defensive role, as we saw in Miami,” Roddick said. “He might have to tweak his late-career strategy, similar to how Federer adjusted his game. Roger didn’t play defense as much after he hit 30, and instead, he focused more on using his variety and offensive shots.”
Roddick’s advice for Djokovic centers around adopting a more calculated, aggressive approach in the later years of his career, just as Federer did when he shifted his style to remain competitive.
After Djokovic’s early exit at the BNP Paribas Open, many speculated that his dominance was waning, especially after his first-round defeat to Botic Van de Zandschulp. His loss to Mensik in Miami had similar elements, with both opponents overpowering Djokovic with powerful serves. However, there was a notable difference between the two defeats. In Indian Wells, Djokovic appeared disengaged, lacking his usual resolve during tough moments. In contrast, at the Miami Open, Djokovic was a much more formidable competitor, making it to the final without dropping a set before succumbing in two tense tiebreakers.
Despite missing out on his 100th title, Djokovic’s fight throughout the Miami Open proved that his passion and elite-level skills are still intact. After his loss, Djokovic spoke candidly about his performance and the fine margins that determined the outcome.
What’s your perspective on: Can Djokovic adapt his game like Federer and Agassi to secure his 25th Grand Slam?
Following his loss to Mensik, Djokovic acknowledged his opponent’s strength, especially his powerful serve and improved backhand. “His serve is incredible—powerful, precise, and he wins a lot of free points with it. His backhand is great, and for a tall guy, his movement is impressive too. He’s still improving, and I’m sure we’ll be seeing a lot more of him,” Djokovic said.
Mensik’s victory in Miami marked a historic moment, with the 19-year-old’s composure under pressure earning him his first big breakthrough against one of the game’s greatest. Djokovic, who has already equaled Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slams, is now focused on claiming his 25th. With the clay season approaching, fans are eager to see if Djokovic can regain his dominant form at Roland Garros and cement his place in tennis history.
