Novak Djokovic’s upsetting exit from the Indian Wells by lucky loser Luca Nardi would have ended many careers. Djokovic though is something else. With the fitness level and the mindset he possesses, it looks like he is ready to grind it out for a few years more. The tennis world has been abuzz with chatter, most of which left Djokovic at the receiving end of harsh criticism.

However, some remembered to celebrate the champion and reminded people of what the Serb had been able to achieve. American former world No. 1 tennis player Jim Courier takes the conversation forward to highlight certain aspects of Djokovic’s greatness.

‘It blows the mind’–Jim Courier on Novak Djokovic

In a recent episode of The Craig Shapiro Tennis Podcast, Courier was in awe of Djokovic’s achievements. He says, “I came up with a good one that I’m sure other people have talked about it, but I haven’t, and certainly not when I’ve been on the Tennis Channel about this. Since he’s turned 35. Novak has a Career Grand Slam. He’s won each of the majors once since he turned 35 years.”

Not wanting to sound too condescending to someone else but still making his point clear, he takes his example, “I retired in 2000. I was 30. I mean, think about this. I mean, most players never there’s just a very small group of players that ever get a Career Grand Slam. He’s done it. Since he’s 35. It blows the mind.

Talking about maximizing the miles of a tennis pro’s career and fans’ delight on Djokovic being back at Indian Wells Courier remarks, “The amount of love that he’s rightfully getting from the fans and the vibe around him, It’s really good and he’s a guy who’s craved it, understandably and it’s been a little bit of an up and down relationship with him and the audiences but at this stage of his career it feels like he is getting his due and its overdue.”

However, in a disappointing development for the fans following the Indian Wells upset, Djokovic has decided to withdraw from the Miami Open to focus on his preparation for the clay court season.

‘No titles this year. That’s not something I’m used to’ – Novak Djokovic

Following his loss to Nardi, Djokovic expressed dissatisfaction with his performance and acknowledged that not securing a title yet this year is a new experience for him. “No titles this year. That’s not something I’m used to. I was starting the season most of my career with a Grand Slam win or, you know, Dubai win, or any or tournament,” he said in his post-match presser

The 24-time Grand Slam champion refrained from confirming his participation in Miami immediately after his loss to Nardi. He mentioned needing time to reflect as he was “still hot-headed.”

He expresses his want to break away from the negative cycle that started earlier this year due to his lack of form. “I guess every trophy that eventually comes my way is going to be great (smiling),” he says on a lighter note.
The fans can hope to see a rejuvenated Djokovic at the French Open alongside Rafael Nadal, who will also be next seen in Paris. Perhaps both are taking a few steps back to make a long jump forward!