“Record of Nadal is highest priority,” Boris Becker says Novak Djokovic has only one agenda in Australia this year

Whenever Australian Open comes to mind Novak Djokovic’s name pops up naturally. The Serb’s record there makes him invincible in Melbourne Park. Coming out of a title win in Adelaide further boosts the 35-year-old’s profile as he starts the tournament as the biggest favorite. 

German former World No. 1 Boris Becker is one of the firm believers of Djokovic’s form and credentials. He considers the Serb as the player to watch out for among the big names in the tournament. Talking to Eurosport, Becker outlined Djokovic’s plans while also pointing out the difference this year for the Serb compared to the past. 

“The favorite, yes, also the top favorite, but not as clear as in the past,” Becker told Eurosport. “The Rod Laver Arena is his living room, he feels most comfortable there and has won the title nine times,” he further added. 

“He recently won the preparatory tournament in Adelaide by beating Sebastian Korda in the final, and before that, defeated strong opponents Daniil Medvedev and Denis Shapovalov in the semi-finals and quarter-finals, respectively,” Becker elaborated the reason behind Djokovic’s shining prospects. 

Talking about the bigger picture, Becker believes overcoming Rafael Nadal in the total tally is more important for Djokovic than the crown in Melbourne. “In the depths of his soul, Novak wants to become the most successful tennis player of all time. At the moment, that’s Nadal, you have to say that clearly. This record of Nadal’s is the highest priority for Djokovic. Anything else would not be credible,” the 55-year-old emphasized. 

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Despite being the overwhelming favorite it will not be a cakewalk for Novak Djokovic 

Not only Boris Becker but many other former players and tennis pundits have picked Novak Djokovic as the favorite for the Australian Open. His record in Melbourne itself corroborates that. In Australia, the 21-time Grand Slam champion has been undefeated for almost five years. 

Having said that, Becker acknowledges this year will come with additional pressure for Djokovic. “But it won’t be an easy tournament. The expectations are high, and Novak wants to equal Nadal’s Grand Slam record. In addition, he seems to have something wrong with his thigh and is probably not at 100 percent,” Becker said. 

Djokovic himself is under a lot of pressure due to last year’s infamous saga. He has made it clear that the past has been forgotten and he is ready to make a fresh start. With 48 hours remaining for the tournament to start, all eyes are on Djokovic to reclaim his crown and immortalize himself as the greatest in the history of the sport.

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