Djokovic celebrates after ending year as world no.1
Brad Gilbert has insisted that Novak Djokovic is enjoying the best ATP Tour season in over five decades following another dominant year. Andre Agassi’s former coach, who works with current US Open champion Coco Gauff, has heaped praise on the 36-year-old who is in action at the ATP World Tour finals in Turin.
Gilbert is one of the most familiar faces in tennis following a playing career lasting 13 years – where he would reach the lofty heights of World No. 4 in 1990. Since retiring, the former pro has turned his hand to coaching with huge success.
The 62-year-old has enjoyed successful spells with some of the biggest names in the sport. Gilbert helped American tennis icon Agassi win six of his eight majors during an eight-year spell, and helped Andy Roddick to the 2003 US Open title.
The coach has also worked with Andy Murray and is now tutoring Gauff. Gilbert made an immediate impact seeing the 19-year-old win the women’s singles titles at the Washington and Cincinnati before winning the US Open.
Despite his many years in the game, and overseeing some of the sport’s most memorable moments, Gilbert believes that it’s Djokovic who has stood out over the last 50 years. In a post on X, the coach outlined his reasons for the claim.
“this is 50th year of @atptour,” he said. “Djoker @DjokerNole his amazing 8th number one finish, 27-1 in slams, missed 4 hardcourt 1000’s hasn’t lost before finals since May, at 36 years young i will put this as best year potentially on men’s tour in 50 years”
Gilbert’s comments have been met with a mixed reaction from fans. While some agree, many claim that John McEnroe had more success during his historic 1984 season.
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The American ended the year with an 82-3 record with the US Open title and wins in both the Wimbledon singles and doubles – alongside Peter Fleming. He would reach the French Open final and end the year as World No. 1.
Despite McEnroe’s success, Djovokic’s age means he can lay claim to a stunning year, enjoying three Grand Slam wins this year for the fourth time in his career. The 36-year-old achieved the US Open, French Open and Australian Open as part of his six trophy haul – including two more Masters wins to take him to a record-breaking 40 for his career.
Although he has been dominant throughout the year, Djokovic claims that he has performed better in previous seasons and has not played as much in 2023 as he looks to preserve himself for the major events.
“One of the best years,” the Serbian said. “I wouldn’t say the best, but one of the best.
“I mean, the fact that I’ve won three out of four Slams and played a final [in] the fourth and it’s still not the best year of my life, it’s quite nice to have that kind of situation.”
Djokovic is next in action when he faces Jannik Sinner in the round robin phase of the ATP World Tour Finals on Tuesday (November 14).
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