Djokovic still on course to make history, says veteran tennis coach
Novak Djokovic will quickly get over his failed calendar Grand slam bid at the US Open, according to former Yugoslavia Davis Cup coach Radmilo Armenulic.
Despite Djokovic’s devastating straight-set loss to world number two Daniil Medvedev, Armenulic, who led Yugoslavia to three Davis Cup semi-finals from 1988-1991, was certain the world number one would still be on track to becoming the greatest of all time.
The 81-year-old Armenulic says the 34-year-old Serb still has two or three years left playing at the highest level.
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Djokovic capable of winning more slams
“He has every chance of winning another three or four slams, which would be enough to make his tally unbeatable,” he added.
“His age will at some point undoubtedly become a factor and the younger contenders are at an advantage because they can still improve, whereas all he can do is work hard to stay on his current level,” said the former coach.
Djokovic shares the record of 20 major titles won with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal, and Armenulic predicts he will move ahead of his rivals at the 2022 Australian Open.
Djokovic under much pressure at US Open
Armenulic said the Serb’s performance in the final was well below par due to stress. “Djokovic was under tremendous pressure from the Serbian audience and exhausted after the semi-final win over Alexander Zverev. He looked flat and didn’t move well on the court.”
He added that fans and media in Serbia were essentially demanding a win. “It was clear from the start that he came into the match with so much weight on his shoulders. He couldn’t get it out of his head and it cost him the title,” he sad.
“I am sure he will bounce back quickly. The Australian Open is his tournament and I am almost convinced that he will win a record-breaking 21st slam in Melbourne,” he stated.
Djokovic has won the title nine times at the Australian Open, which will be held next year from Jan. 17-30.