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“Mentally Just Toughest in the World”: Frances Tiafoe Explains Why Novak Djokovic Is Difficult To Beat

Published 08/03/2021, 1:31 AM EDT

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23-year-old American tennis star Frances Tiafoe will kickstart his US Open Series on home turf at Citi Open 2021. However, before doing that, he opened up on the 2021 season World No.1 Novak Djokovic has had so far.

Notably, Tiafoe hailed Djokovic over his mental fortitude and his ability to keep raising his level. Moreover, he even acknowledged that the 20-time Grand Slam champion might also make it 21 this year.

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Along with Tiafoe, the entire tennis world is eagerly waiting to see whether Djokovic completes the Calendar Slam in 2021 or not. Given Tiafoe’s description of the Serb, it would not be easy to stop him now.

Frances Tiafoe explains why he thinks Novak Djokovic is special

Until now, Djokovic has won three out of three major tournaments this year. In other words, he has won a Grand Slam on all tennis surfaces in 2021, that is, hard, clay, and grass court.

“The guy’s special, man. He can play on all surfaces; he’s moving so well, his serve has gotten a lot better.” Tiafoe said.

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In addition to surface adaptability, Djokovic is the under-pressure leader on the ATP Tour with 251.5 points. As per Tiafoe, that is the key to his undefeatable game on the men’s circuit.

“Mentally, just the toughest in the world. Not necessarily, he [Djokovic] has the best forehand, backhand or whatever, just mentally, he’s so, so good,” added Tiafoe.

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Furthermore, the American stated that Djokovic grows along and faster than his opponents on a tennis court. He also mentioned how near the Serb is from achieving the Calendar Slam, which Rod Laver last completed in 1969.

“As you raise your level, he’s going to keep raising it, keep raising it, really make you beat him. He goes to a place that people just don’t quite want to go to it seems like. He’s always got an answer for you. He’s on the brink of achieving something crazy special,” Tiafoe concluded.

Watch this story: “Lets Start to Celebrate His Greatness”- Tennis Legend Chris Evert Not Happy With Novak Djokovic Criticism From Fans And Media

Where will Djokovic play next after the Olympics loss?

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Recently, Djokovic withdrew from the Rogers Cup 2021, taking a break from a tight schedule. However, he will soon be on the court to prepare for the ultimate prize, the US Open 2021.

As for Tiafoe, he is up against compatriot Jenson Brooksby in the second round in Washington. Interestingly, Rafael Nadal is also contesting for the first time in the United States capital.

All in all, the hard court season has resumed again, and a lot of high-quality tennis and records will shortly follow.

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Are you excited to see Djokovic compete for the Grand Slam in New York?

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Written by:

Purav Joshi

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Purav Joshi is a Tennis author at EssentiallySports. Having a degree in Films, Television and Media Production, he guided his passion for writing and journalism into the sport of aces and rallies. With over 2 years of experience as a copywriter, Purav has authored over 500 tennis articles.
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