Slam legend hails ‘absolutely incredible’ Novak Djokovic season
While Novak Djokovic was disappointed not to add the Davis Cup to his 2021 collection, this icon reminded fans of the Serb’s astounding year.
Serbia were ousted in the semi-finals by Croatia as the number one doubles pair in the world of Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic despatched Djokovic and partner Filip Krajinovic in the deciding rubber.
The world number one was leading his nation in a bid to add a second Davis Cup crown to their 2010 triumph, which Djokovic was also a big part of.
Despite his year ending on a bittersweet note, Djokovic still had a history-making season, as noted by 1989 French Open doubles champion Patrick McEnroe.
“An absolutely incredible year for Novak Djokovic this year,” the American tweeted.
“Three Majors, another final. Plays full fall schedule supporting the tour and Davis Cup. Tip the cap tennis fans. #Djokovic”
At the US Open, Djokovic was just one win from sealing the first men’s Calendar Slam since Rod Laver’s in 1969, and first outright since Steffi Graf in 1988.
But world number two Daniil Medvedev denied the Serb, leaving him with a still greatly impressive 27-1 record at Slams in 2021.
An absolutely incredible year for @DjokerNole this year
3 majors, another final
Plays full fall schedule supporting the tour and @DavisCup
Tip the cap tennis fans#Djokovic
— Patrick McEnroe (@PatrickMcEnroe) December 3, 2021
He returned to win the Paris Masters, a record sixth title there and stand-alone record 37th Masters title, one more than Rafael Nadal’s 36.
He reached the semi-finals of both the ATP Finals and the Davis Cup soon after.
While it is still unclear whether Djokovic will compete at the Australian Open and fight for a 10th title there and 21st Major crown, 2021 will be recognised in years to come as an astonishing achievement by the 34-year-old.
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