‘Novak Djokovic has everything,’ Kei Nishikori ahead of US Open challenge

Novak Djokovic moved a step closer to completing a calendar Grand Slam after dominating Tallon Griekspoor 6-2, 6-3,  6-2 to setup a third round clash against Kei Nishikori.

The Serb is bidding to become leader of all-time Major list by winning his 21st Grand Slam and move ahead of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

Djokovic holds a 17-2 lead against Nishikori, however the Japanese star did beat him in 2014 US Open semi-final. The 31-year-old highlighted the attributes that make Djokovic so difficult to beat.

“Well, I think his best thing is controlling the ball,” Nishikori said. “He can hit anywhere from both sides. He’s been serving well. Best return on the tour. Maybe compared to other guys, less unforced errors. I mean, he has everything. I think that’s couple (of) good things.”

Nishikori reminisced about his win against Djokovic in 2014 which is widely regarded as his career best win.

“I think it was one of my best match(es),” Nishikori added. “Yeah, I mean, because of that I think it’s little better feeling that I have playing here. I mean, even though he (Novak Djokovic) is the best player, I have a good memory of playing and beating him at the US Open before.”

The 2014 US Open finalist added that key to beating Djokovic is finding a perfect balance between aggression and patience.

“Well, I have to stay patient,” he said. “I still have to play great tennis to beat him. Same time I have to be aggressive. He’s not going to give me any free points so I have to earn the points. I think, yeah, being aggressive is the key.”

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