Novak Djokovic: John McEnroe issues ‘more human’ verdict on the Serb at French Open
Tennis legend John McEnroe is not sure “what’s wrong” with Novak Djokovic, but feels the great Serbian “seems more human” ahead of his French Open title defence.
The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion believes the men’s tournament at Roland Garros is “the most open” in the last 20 years given the uncertainty over several top players.
Djokovic has endured a disappointing 2024 season so far, having not won a title and lost six of the 20 matches he has played. The 37-year-old has reached the semi-finals at three tournaments: the Australian Open; the Monte Carlo Masters; and the Geneva Open.
By comparison, Djokovic claimed seven titles, won 56 matches and suffered only seven defeats during a brilliant 2023 season.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion fell to a three-set semi-final loss to Tomas Machac at the ATP 250 tournament in Geneva last week. He accepted a wildcard to compete at the event after a shock third round defeat to Alejandro Tabilo at the Italian Open.
McEnroe gave his thoughts on Djokovic’s struggles this year ahead of the world No 1’s opening round Roland Garros match against Pierre-Hugues Herbert.
“I don’t know what’s wrong with him, if it’s because of a physical issue, motivation, age, distractions outside of tennis,” the American told the media at Roland Garros.
“Right now, he seems more human. It’s the most open Roland Garros in the last 20 years.”
The former world No 1 also mentioned Djokovic’s split with long-time coach Goran Ivanisevic and highlighted what he thinks the Serbian needs in a coach at this stage of his career.
“No one can teach him how to play tennis, I think he needs someone at his side who knows how to motivate him,” McEnroe said.
“[Players] pay much more attention to the Majors than in my time. We cared about the balance of the entire year.”
McEnroe, a runner-up at the French Open in 1984, has also discussed the openness of the men’s tournament at the Paris Grand Slam.
“I do believe this is the most open tournament in years. Especially with the uncertainty with a lot of the top players,” McEnroe told Eurosport.
“It’s sort of exciting from a commentator’s point of view. I’m sure it’s very stressful for the players, especially the top players, if they don’t know where they are.
“Obviously, if everyone was healthy you’d have three or four heavy favourites. So at least it opens the door for some other players that wouldn’t normally think they have a shot.
“There are a couple of Americans doing pretty well. Maybe they get more belief, because they’re coming in healthy. It opens the door for some other players.”
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