One might suggest that World No. 1 Novak Djokovic achieved everything he aimed for in the 2020 season. But in addition to his spectacular year, the mental side of the 33-year-old also came to the surface. Recently, Mikhail Youzhny, coach of Denis Shapovalov, shed some light on the Serbian’s psychological state.

Djokovic completed the season, recording an incredible 41 wins over only 5 losses. Out of the 5, his biggest loss came at the 2020 US Open when he got defaulted from the tournament. The Serbian had accidentally hit a lines person in the throat and, as a result, paid the price.

Notably, the tournament had taken place after the restart from the coronavirus outbreak. Before the break, the Serbian had claimed his 17 Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. However, something ticked off for Djokovic as the season resumed, noted the former Russian No. 1 Youzhny.

Novak Djokovic suffered an emotional blow in the Roland-Garros finals

Since the restart, the Serbian ace had his eye focused on ending the season as World No. 1. In doing so, he also equalled American Pete Sampras’ record of a 6-time year-end top player. But despite his records, the tennis world witnessed a loose cannon going off on tennis courts.

“If you look closely at his psychological state, though he later won the Masters in Rome, but how much emotion it cost him… Or the same Roland Garros final. So, if you dig, then without a trace all this for the emotional state did not pass,” said Mikhail.

(All quotes have been translated via Google Translate)

The Russian also highlighted the situation where Djokovic fought with the umpire in the first set of Rome Masters. Losing heavily against arch-rival Rafael Nadal in the finals of the French Open added fuel to the fire.

Therefore, Djokovic participated in Vienna and skipped Paris Masters to secure his rank. Interestingly, the Serbian sealed the deal in the first two matches and gave away next match to lucky-loser Lorenzo Sonego. “This also says a lot – how hard it all is it was given to him. He just didn’t play this match anymore,” concluded the Russian.

Read More: “Unnecessary”: Vienna Open Tournament Director Disappointed with Novak Djokovic’s Statements

Nonetheless, the Serbian is ready to start fresh next season and defend his title once more in Australia. Before that, he will defend the ATP Cup along with his Serbian teammates. Hopefully, in the next season, fans will get to see the cheerful and mischievous Djoko again.

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