Novak Djokovic’s greatness is reflected by his work with PTPA says Sania Mirza pointing out how ‘Fedal’ has overshadowed the Serb

Novak Djokovic receives the backing of Indian tennis great Sania Mirza who defends his legacy for his work in helping his colleagues.

Novak Djokovic’s greatness is reflected by his work with PTPA says Sania Mirza pointing out how ‘Fedal’ has overshadowed the Serb

Novak Djokovic and Sania Mirza (Credits: Hindustan Times)

The legacy of Novak Djokovic is always a favorite topic in tennis circles. Despite the 23 Grand Slam titles and most weeks as World No. 1 in the history of the sport, one can always feel the Serb being neglected in front of other greats. His packed trophy cabinet is still not enough for many to hold him equal among other legends.

Commenting on the sorry situation of Djokovic, Indian tennis legend and former Doubles World No. 1 Sania Mirza came to his aid. She highlighted how Nole is brilliant as a pro. Further, she also emphasized his contributions as a tennis player in order to help the less privileged or newcomers on the Tour. Calling Djokovic ‘caring’, she also credited him for actually meaning ‘36 is the new 26‘.

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“He is part of the Professional Tennis Players Association, but he does not need to be part of it. He does so because he wants to help others who are not as privileged as him. I do not know how to describe greatness, but it is not just about being a great tennis player. It is also about being a good person,” commented Mirza speaking with The Week.

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Mirza retired earlier this year at the 2023 Australian Open narrowly losing the Mixed Doubles finals along with compatriot Rohan Bopanna. She was seen as part of the coverage team at the 2023 Wimbledon and one can expect the Indian ace to continue with her role as an expert at various events.

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Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic (Credits: News18)

It is no surprise that the ever-growing fan base of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal is one of the reasons Novak Djokovic is looked down upon. The two were absolutely ruling the men’s side in the second half of the decade of 2000. Then came Djokovic to not only challenge them but overcome them eventually.

The 10-time Australian Open winner has had his share of troubles and controversies including a ban from entering the Slam nations. Despite this, at the age of 36, he is the leader for most Grand Slam titles, most ATP Masters-1000, and joint holder of most Year-end Championship titles alongside Federer.

“I do not know if he is misunderstood on the circuit; he is quite liked actually on the tour. Everybody has a lot of respect for him, as they should. But I think because it has been a Rafa-Roger rivalry, everyone spoke about him as the third man who kind of came in. Who would have thought he would surpass everybody one day?” added Mirza.

Nole has already made it clear, the Majors remain his biggest ambition. He has already withdrawn from the Canadian Masters and will play just the Cincinnati Masters in the build-up to the 2023 US Open. With two Slam titles this year, and a runner-up finish in Wimbledon, he is well-placed to qualify for the ATP Finals as well. Don’t be surprised if he ends up breaking a few more records before the end of this season.

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