Giles Simon compares himself to Novak Djokovic when “playing at 70%”
Former French tennis professional Giles Simon acknowledges Novak Djokovic's ability to with Grand Slam titles even in the face of injury.
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Novak Djokovic, Giles Simon
Serbian tennis icon Novak Djokovic’s masterclass victory in the 2023 Australian Open is still fresh even after two weeks have passed. The 35-year-old had overcome Stefanos Tsitsipas in a thrilling final to clinch his record-extending 10th title Down Under despite some injury concern. Furthermore, the controversy surrounding the Serb’s hamstring injury over the last two weeks has not subsided.
Adding another conversation to the sensational issue, Gilles Simon gave his opinion. He was invited by Gael Monfils on his show, Twitch, where Simon opened up about his own injury, drawing some parallels with the 22-time Grand Slam champion. Simon believes Djokovic has another level, as he can win the big titles and not just a couple of matches while carrying an injury.
Simon tried to relate Djokovic’s situation with his own. “Me too, I happened to play injured, How many times I played at 70%. I was on crutches the same morning and I managed to reach the 3rd round or the 8th finals because it was simply my level!” Simon explained. “His level is winning Grand Slam tournaments,” he added in praise of Djokovic.
Other than Giles, there are many players who have praised Djokovic earlier for his continued resilience on his path to victory. Right after the tournament, some more light was shed on the topic. But there are others too who made their doubts public, maintaining that Djokovic’s injury might have been just a minor tear.
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Novak Djokovic’s participation in the Sunshine Doubles is still uncertain
Djokovic got the green light to play in the Australian Open after last year’s infamous ordeal, and he announced his return in style. But it seems like the tennis calendar for the Serb is not without some challenges because of his unvaccinated status. His participation in the Sunshine Doubles is still a mystery.
The World No. 1 has submitted the required paperwork to compete in the Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami, according to his brother Djordje Djokovic. Talking to a Serbian news agency, Tanjug, Novak’s younger brother claimed that the issue was “out of their hands”.
“Novak needs to get special permission to enter, considering that the USA still doesn’t let unvaccinated foreigners into the country, which is unbelievable, considering that we have seen big sporting manifestations with unvaccinated athletes throughout the world,” he explained.
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Abhinavendu Singh
(290 Articles Published)