Novak Djokovic, world number 1 and a holder of the most enviable records in tennis history is usually under fire from fans and traditional bigwigs. Their reasons vary but the Serbinator is as infamous as he’s popular. He recently received some flak when he was defeated by Italian tennis sensation Jannik Sinner, who ended Novak’s streak in the semifinals. However, amid a string of dissenters, there’s also a staunch supporter.

The fact is, the games and tournaments Nole is criticized for would be a dream for many. Former American tennis player Andy Roddick was recently found defending the Serb, emphasizing how he has proven he’s the best of the best.

Andy Roddick Defends Novak Djokovic After AO Heartbreak

In the latest episode of Roddick’s podcast, Served With Andy Roddick, he was heard standing steadfastly on Djoker’s side. Critiquing himself for establishing Novak Djokovic’s greatness, the American said, “Obviously Novak coming out. It’s going to be interesting to see how he deals with, you know for most of us, the best result I had in Australia was the Semis, and it’s like a disappointing result for Novak right?” While Nole is an AO champ, Roddick didn’t have the best luck there, especially in 2024.

Talking about Djokovic’s desire to bounce back and prove himself he said, “You don’t have to prove anything ever for the rest of your life.”  Sending out a message to the Djoker that he is indeed the best player to walk this earth is a testament to the Serb’s greatness.

Djokovic holds the unprecedented record of being ranked No. 1 for a total of 415 weeks across 13 distinct years and has clinched the year-end No. 1 spot an unmatched eight times. Moreover, he boasts an unparalleled tally of 24 Grand Slam men’s singles titles to his name including a record ten Australian Open titles.

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Since Djokovic had a record of 10 Australian Open titles and had won 4 out 5 in the past few years, the loss must have meant a lot to the Djoker.  However, Djokovic was found praising the young Italian but was highly disappointed with his own game.

Novak Djokovic Was Shocked With His Apparently Subpar Level of Play

Djokovic’s title defense was abruptly halted by an impressive performance from Jannik Sinner, who sealed the match in four sets with a score of 6-1, 6-2, 6-7(6), 6-3. Despite facing a match point setback in the third set tie-break, Sinner managed to emerge victorious.

Plagued by errors, Djokovic tallied a staggering 54 unforced errors and failed to capitalize on any break points throughout the match. His frustration was palpable on the court and later he did not mince any words when expressing his disappointment. In the post-match presser, the Djoker was highly critical of himself. Nole revealed that he was “shocked with his level” and added that this was “one of the worst Grand Slam matches I’ve ever played.”

“The whole tournament I haven’t really played close to my best,” Djokovic admitted. The Serb expressed that he expects more of himself and maybe “it wasn’t meant to be today.”

Djokovic is now back in Indian Wells after 5 years and will be significantly hungry to serve fans with his best performance of the season yet.