Roger Federer’s Ex-coach Ivan Ljubicic Issues Stern Warning Over Young Italian Sensation’s Comparison to the Swiss Legend as He Cites Grigor Dimitrov’s Example

Talk about the greatest players in tennis and Roger Federer is sure to make it to that list. Such have been his achievements during his illustrious career. As a result, many players have been compared to the Swiss maestro. While the 20-time Grand Slam champion was nearing the end of his career, fans were in dire need of finding another ‘Federer.’ This led to players like Grigor Dimitrov being compared to the Swiss legend due to similarities in their playing styles.

Another player, Lorenzo Musetti has been making waves in the tennis circuit. Only 21 years old, the Italian sensation has been one of the most consistent players on the ATP Tour. Additionally, his lethal one-handed backhand shots are a treat to watch, earning comparison to Federer. However, the Swiss maestro’s former coach, Ivan Ljubicic has sounded cautious on this comparison.

What did Ivan Ljubicic say about the comparison with Roger Federer?

The 44-year-old wasn’t too pleased with Musetti being compared to Federer. Ljubicic felt that it is difficult for players after being put into the former World Number One’s shoes. Additionally, he also cited Grigor Dimitrov’s example to explain his case.

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Talking about this, Federer’s former coach, Ljubicic said, “It’s a dangerous speech. Just look at what happened to Dimitrov, who really was a photocopy of Roger. Heavy comparisons that create expectations that can hurt a player.”

Further, the Croatian went on to explain why Musetti’s comparison to Federer was illogical and harmful for the Italian. Ljubicic went on to add, “I don’t think Lorenzo looks that much like Federer. He has great technique, makes you dream, but maybe we want to use his talent to fill the void of beauty that Roger has left. That can be risky for a guy who’s looking for his style & still shaping it.”

Meanwhile, Musetti is having one of the best seasons of his tennis career. He has entered the top 20 of the ATP World Ranking and is looking solid ahead of the US Open.

Musetti at the National Bank Open

The Italian is in Toronto to participate in the ATP 1000 National Bank Open. He is the 16th seed at the tournament and has a fairly straightforward opening few rounds. Yesterday, the Italian star had a straight-set victory over Yoshihito Nishioka of Japan.

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In the second round, Musetti will take on Australia’s Thanasi Kokkinakis. Further, a clash with Number 2 seed, Daniil Medvedev awaits Musetti in the pre-quarterfinals. Can Musetti dig deep at the National Bank Open? Let us know your views in the comments below.