The biggest asterix in tennis history

ttwreader

ttwreader

Hall of Fame
gadge said:
Is medvedev, tsitsipas and zverev the new big 3? Novak is the only one in their way and they’re ranked 2,3,4.
medvedev reached the AO final, stef FO and sascha OG. They’re also consistently improving on consistency in slams.
Now in masters they’ve all reached semis. As of now medvedev clearly has the advantage on HCs, the other two on clay.
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Answer this question first ;)
 
GabeT

GabeT

G.O.A.T.
Sputnik Bulgorov said:
In the strong years of 2011-2014, it was almost guaranteed that you had to beat 2 of the top 4 in a row to win a slam. In Wimbledon 2018, he had a tough match vs Nadal then had a free ride in the finals. In 2019, he sleepwalked to the title, playing well below his best. Free ride in the SF and then ancient half-dead Federer in the finals.
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Wow, so easy to win Wimbledon! How many trophies do you have?
 
ForehandRF

ForehandRF

Legend
NoleIsBoat said:
In fact, we saw that happen in 2017. Of course Fed played amazing age 36+ and deserved the praise.
But now it’s novak all we hear is weak era, tennis is doomed.
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You shouldn't complain about it as long as you are trashing Fed's 2004-2006 on a daily basis and you are not the only one doing it.It's called fightning fire with fire.So, as long as you and other Djokovic fans will continue to diminish Federer's achievements so will some Federer fans do with Djokovic's achievements, it's a vicious cycle.
 
T

Texas Tennis Fan

Professional
Hitman said:
The biggest asterisk in tennis will always be Monica Seles being stabbed in her back and taken out of the game in her peak, removing Graf's toughest challenger which helped Graf then win 4 slams in a row and ultimately helped her get the open era record.

Nothing comes close to that.
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Truth! and very, very sad.
 
T

Texas Tennis Fan

Professional
Sputnik Bulgorov said:
Djokovic is GOAT, but there’s no question he’s been enjoying a free ride since 2018. Medvedev, Tsitsipas and Zverev, at their physical peak, have collectively been unable to beat Djokovic who’s 9-11 years older than them even once. What about Dimitrov, Raonic, Nishikori and Goffin? They were supposed to challenge the big 3 and block nextgen but they’ve done nothing.
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I have said this before. All of the Big 3 have enjoyed times of easier wins. Federer enjoyed it early in his career and on grass where there is limited competition; Nadal enjoyed the time when he dominated clay because there are few competitors, and now Djokovic having faced Federer and Nadal and conquered them in most objective metrics, may have a period of time when he is able to keep winning. He also has a big advantage on grass since post-Fed there are few players highly competent on it. However, the younger players are getting better.

And all of this is simply the cycles of tennis.
 
T

Texas Tennis Fan

Professional
NoleIsBoat said:
In fact, we saw that happen in 2017. Of course Fed played amazing age 36+ and deserved the praise.
But now it’s novak all we hear is weak era, tennis is doomed.
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Of course. These sorts of posts have nothing to do with the strength of the era and everything to do with Djokovic reaching 20 slams so that FEDAL fans have nothing else to support their guy (OK, the OG but that is weak). How often did we hear after FO 2020 that Djokovic was finished and it was over. No one expected him to win the first 3 slams and tie and now panic has set in for the FEDAL fans who can only claim one thing: weak era. No one 50 years from now will say that and tennis commentators are already coming over and saying that Djokovic is probably the GOAT.
 
roysid

roysid

Hall of Fame
In tennis, the last time there was a asterisk was Grafs major wins post Seles stabbing. Thats the biggest what if in tennis history.

That Djokovic won AO 21 is no asterisk. With such an injury, all others would have quit or lost. That he won the Fritz match at such circumstance is credit to him.

And this coming from a Fed fan
 
M

Milanez82

Hall of Fame
SardinesForDinner said:
It’s time to call it for what it really is. Novak Djokovic’s 2021 season and potential CSG is by a large distant the tennis achievement with the biggest asterix attached to it.

Let’s start from the beginning of the year. At the Australian Open the Serb looked more then beatable. Let’s be honest, in any other era Djokovic would have lost before the final. Fritz should have ended him without a shadow of a doubt - I have a hard time seeing any Nole fan not agreeing here - and Zverev aka ”put myself in there maybe” had another US Open like choke. Zverev isn’t 19 or 20 anymore. He’s at an age where you’re supposed to be in your prime. Even Mr Walkman (Raonic) in his 2016 form would have put the hammer down on Djokovic.

In the final Djokovic faced Medvedev, the most in-form player on tour. The Russian turned into a little scared bunny who doesn’t know how to fight and couldn’t help but smile afterwards despite having lost in three humiliating sets with a 20+ match winning streak going into the match. Absolutely pathetic. Granted, Djokovic played a great final but Medvedev’s attitude and lack of fight is an embarrassment.

Nonetheless, Medvedev’s shameful performance shouldn’t even have mattered. Novak Djokovic in any other era wouldn’t have reached the final.

Let’s fast forward to RG. Djokovic survives Musetti after being behind 0-2. Musetti, aged 19(!!!!), retired without an injury at the end of the fifth set. I mean, come on, at this point I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. The only thing to conclude is that it was a joke. No wonder Djokovic offered him a first class seat for free on his private jet to Wimbledon.

”But Djokovic’s superb and super human win against Rafa in the semis!??”, I can already hear Djokovic fans screaming in their heads. Yes, the Rafael Nadal with a severe foot injury who could barely move the last 1,5 sets. On paper a great win but looking at it with context - especially after seeing how Nadal has struggled with even training and playing matches after RG - it is not that special. Federer would have had 4 DCGS should he dealt with this Rafa in 05, 06, 07 and 11. But luck was on Djokovic’s side just like in 2015 but then Wawrinka stood in the way in the end. It’s quite telling that Fed had to face demon versions of Nadal every time whereas Djokovic could stomp on the two worst versions of Rafa at RG.

In the final Tsitsipas provided an epic choke in the last three sets. In the press conference afterwards he said he learned that he had to win 3 sets and not 2. That’s the kind of opposition Djokovic has had to face. If not an injured Nadal, it has been next gen players thinking they’re demi Gods thanks to social media.

Ok, Wimbledon... the biggest joke of a Grand Slam tournament in this millenium. Djokovic played at 1,5/5 level throughout the tournament and barely lost a set. Another next gen player in the final who couldn’t handle pressure. Wimbledon was a giant joke. Any Djokovic fan stating he is at least close to a neutral observer will have to nod his head in agreement.

Now, US Open is around the corner. Nadal is injured and out. Federer once again is out. Djokovic without having to face his two biggest rivals has the opportunity to achieve the calender Grand Slam. Wawrinka is out. Any other decent older player is not there, retired or out of form. What is left are the same players who have given Djokovic 3 Grand Slam titles on a plate this year. At this stage you’ll have to wonder if they’ll be at the podium after the final so Djokovic can Thank them in person: ”Without you guys it wouldn’t be possible!” He would say before going on to talk about his team and coaches.

I’m not even going to include a poll. It’s not a question, it’s a mere case of stating the obvious: Novak Djokovic’s achievements in 2021 and potential CSG has the biggest Asterix attached to it in tennis history, possibly even in sport’s history.
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This thread needs an asterisk.
 
P

PaddyDutch

Semi-Pro
They didn’t event play tennis in France during Roman occupation, so what are you on about? There was sports at the time, as seen in Asterix and Obelix and the Olympics, but no tennis, at all…
 
jm1980

jm1980

Talk Tennis Guru
It's 2021 and people still can't spell "asterisk"
SardinesForDinner said:
It’s time to call it for what it really is. Novak Djokovic’s 2021 season and potential CSG is by a large distant the tennis achievement with the biggest asterix attached to it.

Let’s start from the beginning of the year. At the Australian Open the Serb looked more then beatable. Let’s be honest, in any other era Djokovic would have lost before the final. Fritz should have ended him without a shadow of a doubt - I have a hard time seeing any Nole fan not agreeing here - and Zverev aka ”put myself in there maybe” had another US Open like choke. Zverev isn’t 19 or 20 anymore. He’s at an age where you’re supposed to be in your prime. Even Mr Walkman (Raonic) in his 2016 form would have put the hammer down on Djokovic.

In the final Djokovic faced Medvedev, the most in-form player on tour. The Russian turned into a little scared bunny who doesn’t know how to fight and couldn’t help but smile afterwards despite having lost in three humiliating sets with a 20+ match winning streak going into the match. Absolutely pathetic. Granted, Djokovic played a great final but Medvedev’s attitude and lack of fight is an embarrassment.

Nonetheless, Medvedev’s shameful performance shouldn’t even have mattered. Novak Djokovic in any other era wouldn’t have reached the final.

Let’s fast forward to RG. Djokovic survives Musetti after being behind 0-2. Musetti, aged 19(!!!!), retired without an injury at the end of the fifth set. I mean, come on, at this point I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. The only thing to conclude is that it was a joke. No wonder Djokovic offered him a first class seat for free on his private jet to Wimbledon.

”But Djokovic’s superb and super human win against Rafa in the semis!??”, I can already hear Djokovic fans screaming in their heads. Yes, the Rafael Nadal with a severe foot injury who could barely move the last 1,5 sets. On paper a great win but looking at it with context - especially after seeing how Nadal has struggled with even training and playing matches after RG - it is not that special. Federer would have had 4 DCGS should he dealt with this Rafa in 05, 06, 07 and 11. But luck was on Djokovic’s side just like in 2015 but then Wawrinka stood in the way in the end. It’s quite telling that Fed had to face demon versions of Nadal every time whereas Djokovic could stomp on the two worst versions of Rafa at RG.

In the final Tsitsipas provided an epic choke in the last three sets. In the press conference afterwards he said he learned that he had to win 3 sets and not 2. That’s the kind of opposition Djokovic has had to face. If not an injured Nadal, it has been next gen players thinking they’re demi Gods thanks to social media.

Ok, Wimbledon... the biggest joke of a Grand Slam tournament in this millenium. Djokovic played at 1,5/5 level throughout the tournament and barely lost a set. Another next gen player in the final who couldn’t handle pressure. Wimbledon was a giant joke. Any Djokovic fan stating he is at least close to a neutral observer will have to nod his head in agreement.

Now, US Open is around the corner. Nadal is injured and out. Federer once again is out. Djokovic without having to face his two biggest rivals has the opportunity to achieve the calender Grand Slam. Wawrinka is out. Any other decent older player is not there, retired or out of form. What is left are the same players who have given Djokovic 3 Grand Slam titles on a plate this year. At this stage you’ll have to wonder if they’ll be at the podium after the final so Djokovic can Thank them in person: ”Without you guys it wouldn’t be possible!” He would say before going on to talk about his team and coaches.

I’m not even going to include a poll. It’s not a question, it’s a mere case of stating the obvious: Novak Djokovic’s achievements in 2021 and potential CSG has the biggest Asterix attached to it in tennis history, possibly even in sport’s history.
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SinneGOAT

SinneGOAT

Hall of Fame
0e49240289d57c6c111afc4a49ee6e47.jpg
 
O

OhYes

Guest
SardinesForDinner said:
It’s time to call it for what it really is. Novak Djokovic’s 2021 season and potential CSG is by a large distant the tennis achievement with the biggest asterix attached to it.

Let’s start from the beginning of the year. At the Australian Open the Serb looked more then beatable. Let’s be honest, in any other era Djokovic would have lost before the final. Fritz should have ended him without a shadow of a doubt - I have a hard time seeing any Nole fan not agreeing here - and Zverev aka ”put myself in there maybe” had another US Open like choke. Zverev isn’t 19 or 20 anymore. He’s at an age where you’re supposed to be in your prime. Even Mr Walkman (Raonic) in his 2016 form would have put the hammer down on Djokovic.

In the final Djokovic faced Medvedev, the most in-form player on tour. The Russian turned into a little scared bunny who doesn’t know how to fight and couldn’t help but smile afterwards despite having lost in three humiliating sets with a 20+ match winning streak going into the match. Absolutely pathetic. Granted, Djokovic played a great final but Medvedev’s attitude and lack of fight is an embarrassment.

Nonetheless, Medvedev’s shameful performance shouldn’t even have mattered. Novak Djokovic in any other era wouldn’t have reached the final.

Let’s fast forward to RG. Djokovic survives Musetti after being behind 0-2. Musetti, aged 19(!!!!), retired without an injury at the end of the fifth set. I mean, come on, at this point I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. The only thing to conclude is that it was a joke. No wonder Djokovic offered him a first class seat for free on his private jet to Wimbledon.

”But Djokovic’s superb and super human win against Rafa in the semis!??”, I can already hear Djokovic fans screaming in their heads. Yes, the Rafael Nadal with a severe foot injury who could barely move the last 1,5 sets. On paper a great win but looking at it with context - especially after seeing how Nadal has struggled with even training and playing matches after RG - it is not that special. Federer would have had 4 DCGS should he dealt with this Rafa in 05, 06, 07 and 11. But luck was on Djokovic’s side just like in 2015 but then Wawrinka stood in the way in the end. It’s quite telling that Fed had to face demon versions of Nadal every time whereas Djokovic could stomp on the two worst versions of Rafa at RG.

In the final Tsitsipas provided an epic choke in the last three sets. In the press conference afterwards he said he learned that he had to win 3 sets and not 2. That’s the kind of opposition Djokovic has had to face. If not an injured Nadal, it has been next gen players thinking they’re demi Gods thanks to social media.

Ok, Wimbledon... the biggest joke of a Grand Slam tournament in this millenium. Djokovic played at 1,5/5 level throughout the tournament and barely lost a set. Another next gen player in the final who couldn’t handle pressure. Wimbledon was a giant joke. Any Djokovic fan stating he is at least close to a neutral observer will have to nod his head in agreement.

Now, US Open is around the corner. Nadal is injured and out. Federer once again is out. Djokovic without having to face his two biggest rivals has the opportunity to achieve the calender Grand Slam. Wawrinka is out. Any other decent older player is not there, retired or out of form. What is left are the same players who have given Djokovic 3 Grand Slam titles on a plate this year. At this stage you’ll have to wonder if they’ll be at the podium after the final so Djokovic can Thank them in person: ”Without you guys it wouldn’t be possible!” He would say before going on to talk about his team and coaches.

I’m not even going to include a poll. It’s not a question, it’s a mere case of stating the obvious: Novak Djokovic’s achievements in 2021 and potential CSG has the biggest Asterix attached to it in tennis history, possibly even in sport’s history.
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Let me get this straight - A FAN of a tennis player that knows NOTHIN BUT TO VULTURE is having audacity to quesrion someone's season ? :-D :-D :-D :-D :-D :-D :-D
 
S

Sputnik Bulgorov

Professional
Texas Tennis Fan said:
I have said this before. All of the Big 3 have enjoyed times of easier wins. Federer enjoyed it early in his career and on grass where there is limited competition; Nadal enjoyed the time when he dominated clay because there are few competitors, and now Djokovic having faced Federer and Nadal and conquered them in most objective metrics, may have a period of time when he is able to keep winning. He also has a big advantage on grass since post-Fed there are few players highly competent on it. However, the younger players are getting better.

And all of this is simply the cycles of tennis.
Click to expand...

I never denied that. Federer and Nadal having easier times before does not make Djokovic having a free ride at present untrue. Nadal also took advantage of the weak era almost as much as Djokovic and Federer did in late 2017 to early 2018, but Djokovic is the biggest beneficiary.
 
wangs78

wangs78

Legend
I think the OP is right that Novak (and the other two of the Big 3) has benefited tremendously from being viewed as godlike by the NexGen. It's the only way to explain how these young players either choke or just never show up against an opponent that is at age close to retirement age. With that said, Rafa and Roger benefited from this dynamic as well but to a lesser extent bc over the last few years those two, being older and generally losing to Novak on the biggest stages, have become "lesser dieties" so to speak. So Novak has clearly been the greatest beneficiary of this dynamic.

I also think that the pandemic has helped Novak. The younger players probably view the pandemic as an added burden with the quarantine requirements and so forth and use it to justify to themselves why they came up short yet again ("tough conditions, quarantine, pandemic, playing against a tennis god"). Djokovic, on the other hand, is very astutely using it an as an opportunity to sweep Slams when his old opponents are at retirement's door and his young opponents are still looking lost (which is being prolonged by the pandemic).

There will be no asterisk in the record books, though. But unbiased and knowledgeable tennis fans will know under what circumstances Novak won Slams #16-20 (and beyond).
 
P

PilotPete

Hall of Fame
It doesn't matter what Djokovic achieves. What matters most is when he was at his absolute best he would down match points in 2/3 slams to past peak Federer. At their zenith's Federer is the better player. Achievements are a result of circumstances, luck, etc.
 
T

Texas Tennis Fan

Professional
Sputnik Bulgorov said:
I never denied that. Federer and Nadal having easier times before does not make Djokovic having a free ride at present untrue. Nadal also took advantage of the weak era almost as much as Djokovic and Federer did in late 2017 to early 2018, but Djokovic is the biggest beneficiary.
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Very debatable.

Djokovic always had BOTH Nadal and Federer to play though FEDAL people will be quick to say Federer declined after 2010 and Nadal fans that he was a shadow of his former self, even though only 11 months older than Djokovic. Poppycock! That is not what Federer or Nadal have said personally or commentators have said until Federer in the last two years and Nadal maybe this year. It is just fans making up stuff to fit their narrative.

Up until Wimbledon, all we Djokovic fans have heard was 20>17 or 20>18 or 20> 19. Now the goal post has shifted to weak era because you have nothing else to say. It will be the case even more so if Djokovic wins the Grand Slam, the second time he has had four in a row and not duplicated by anyone including Laver whose 1962 slam was against amateurs who were second tier at the time.

There is no way to compare different times other than ELO and it has issues as do all measurement systems in tennis and science. All you will be able to say is that Djokovic had more weeks at No. 1, more slams, more Masters 1000s, and more consecutive streaks of 4 (may be one or hopefully 2) than Fedal. Game, Set, and Match.
 
Tennisfan339

Tennisfan339

Professional
Don't you think Medvedev not playing well in AO final has something to do with his opponent? The guy was on a 20 winning streak and seemed untouchable here. Beat Rublev and Tsitsipas in straights, beat Zverev, Nadal and Thiem in the previous Major. He was clearly the biggest threat in Australia. Most tennis experts I know were certain Medvedev would TRASH him in final and barely lose a match on hard court this year. Djokovic won because he played differently from Rublev and Tsitsipas, that's it. Why asterix it? WHO had better chances (than Medvedev) to beat him in Australia??
Sure, Zverev choked in QF.. Whose fault is it? If we start putting asterisks every time a slam winner has beaten an injured or choking player, I think we can asterisk 80% of the Big3's 6p slams. Wawrinka beat a choking Tsonga in RG, an injured Nadal in Australia and an exhausted Djokovic in USO. Should we asterisk his 3 slam wins? lol

Nadal was not injured until middle of 4th set. Even himself admitted it, the pain only surfaces at the very end of the match (3-2 in the 4th set). He would not have baggeled Sinner and Schwartzman if he was injured. The first 3 sets were all fabulous. 3rd set was one of the best set in history, in terms of quality.
Tsitsipas was beaten fair and square, where is the asterisk? He is the 2nd best player in the world on clay at the moment. Djokovic had a longer and more physical Semifinal and he is 11 years older, so saying Tsitsipas was tired is pointless.

I will concede that he had a favorable draw in Wimbledon, but no more than Nadal's USO 2017 or some of Federer's 2005-2006 slams. Garin is top-20, Shapopalov and Berrettini are top-10, Fucsovics took out 3 seeds (Sinner, Schwartzman and Rublev.) I have seen much much, easier draws. Even with a difficult draw, who could've beaten him in Wimbledon? Except maybe Zverev and his 25 double faults against FAA, I don't see who...

Nadal and Federer not playing USO isn't an argument. One lost the last 19 sets against Djokovic on Hard Court, the other one hasn't beaten him in slams in 10 years. The current versions of Medvedev and Zverev are way more dangerous.
 
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S

Sputnik Bulgorov

Professional
Texas Tennis Fan said:
Very debatable.

Djokovic always had BOTH Nadal and Federer to play though FEDAL people will be quick to say Federer declined after 2010 and Nadal fans that he was a shadow of his former self, even though only 11 months older than Djokovic. Poppycock! That is not what Federer or Nadal have said personally or commentators have said until Federer in the last two years and Nadal maybe this year. It is just fans making up stuff to fit their narrative.

Up until Wimbledon, all we Djokovic fans have heard was 20>17 or 20>18 or 20> 19. Now the goal post has shifted to weak era because you have nothing else to say. It will be the case even more so if Djokovic wins the Grand Slam, the second time he has had four in a row and not duplicated by anyone including Laver whose 1962 slam was against amateurs who were second tier at the time.

There is no way to compare different times other than ELO and it has issues as do all measurement systems in tennis and science. All you will be able to say is that Djokovic had more weeks at No. 1, more slams, more Masters 1000s, and more consecutive streaks of 4 (may be one or hopefully 2) than Fedal. Game, Set, and Match.
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For the record, I think Djokovic is the GOAT. And I am not commenting on his overall competition throughout his career. He had both Federer and Nadal to contend with for most of his career, but that hasn’t applied to the same degree for 2018-2021, which was the focus of my criticism. Federer had one remarkable year coming back and that was 2017. I think the 2018 AO might be his lowest level winning a slam. The fact that he stayed in the top 3 after you that playing at such a low level shows weak the competition was. As for Nadal, he’s been on a continuous decline since 2014, really. Again, that he stayed on the top 2 for so long and won Slams was a sign of extremely weak competition. Credit to Djokovic for maintaining his level, and it’s not his fault the competition collapsed, but I’m calling out his competition for what it really is: weak.
 
TennisFan3

TennisFan3

Talk Tennis Guru
SardinesForDinner said:
It’s time to call it for what it really is. Novak Djokovic’s 2021 season and potential CSG is by a large distant the tennis achievement with the biggest asterix attached to it.

Let’s start from the beginning of the year. At the Australian Open the Serb looked more then beatable. Let’s be honest, in any other era Djokovic would have lost before the final. Fritz should have ended him without a shadow of a doubt - I have a hard time seeing any Nole fan not agreeing here - and Zverev aka ”put myself in there maybe” had another US Open like choke. Zverev isn’t 19 or 20 anymore. He’s at an age where you’re supposed to be in your prime. Even Mr Walkman (Raonic) in his 2016 form would have put the hammer down on Djokovic.

In the final Djokovic faced Medvedev, the most in-form player on tour. The Russian turned into a little scared bunny who doesn’t know how to fight and couldn’t help but smile afterwards despite having lost in three humiliating sets with a 20+ match winning streak going into the match. Absolutely pathetic. Granted, Djokovic played a great final but Medvedev’s attitude and lack of fight is an embarrassment.

Nonetheless, Medvedev’s shameful performance shouldn’t even have mattered. Novak Djokovic in any other era wouldn’t have reached the final.

Let’s fast forward to RG. Djokovic survives Musetti after being behind 0-2. Musetti, aged 19(!!!!), retired without an injury at the end of the fifth set. I mean, come on, at this point I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. The only thing to conclude is that it was a joke. No wonder Djokovic offered him a first class seat for free on his private jet to Wimbledon.

”But Djokovic’s superb and super human win against Rafa in the semis!??”, I can already hear Djokovic fans screaming in their heads. Yes, the Rafael Nadal with a severe foot injury who could barely move the last 1,5 sets. On paper a great win but looking at it with context - especially after seeing how Nadal has struggled with even training and playing matches after RG - it is not that special. Federer would have had 4 DCGS should he dealt with this Rafa in 05, 06, 07 and 11. But luck was on Djokovic’s side just like in 2015 but then Wawrinka stood in the way in the end. It’s quite telling that Fed had to face demon versions of Nadal every time whereas Djokovic could stomp on the two worst versions of Rafa at RG.

In the final Tsitsipas provided an epic choke in the last three sets. In the press conference afterwards he said he learned that he had to win 3 sets and not 2. That’s the kind of opposition Djokovic has had to face. If not an injured Nadal, it has been next gen players thinking they’re demi Gods thanks to social media.

Ok, Wimbledon... the biggest joke of a Grand Slam tournament in this millenium. Djokovic played at 1,5/5 level throughout the tournament and barely lost a set. Another next gen player in the final who couldn’t handle pressure. Wimbledon was a giant joke. Any Djokovic fan stating he is at least close to a neutral observer will have to nod his head in agreement.

Now, US Open is around the corner. Nadal is injured and out. Federer once again is out. Djokovic without having to face his two biggest rivals has the opportunity to achieve the calender Grand Slam. Wawrinka is out. Any other decent older player is not there, retired or out of form. What is left are the same players who have given Djokovic 3 Grand Slam titles on a plate this year. At this stage you’ll have to wonder if they’ll be at the podium after the final so Djokovic can Thank them in person: ”Without you guys it wouldn’t be possible!” He would say before going on to talk about his team and coaches.

I’m not even going to include a poll. It’s not a question, it’s a mere case of stating the obvious: Novak Djokovic’s achievements in 2021 and potential CSG has the biggest Asterix attached to it in tennis history, possibly even in sport’s history.
Click to expand...
A+ for effort. Well done sir. You should have also included how Wimbledon organizers made sure that Medvedev would not get to the final - so that the world #2 has no chance as well.
 
Antonio Puente

Antonio Puente

Hall of Fame
Why is the CYGS so valuable? It's so valuable because it's extremely difficult to do. Well, this hasn't been difficult at all. Djoker has one signature win in 2021, over an injured and aging Nadal. In fact, Djoker isn't even playing that well. Playing at this level in years past, Djoker might have one slam at this point.

If Djoker manages it, I'm afraid it won't have the value Djoker fans are hoping it will. Had Djoker completed a CYGS in 2008, you would bow down to him. This? Not so much.
 
G

Grgisme

Rookie
SardinesForDinner said:
It’s time to call it for what it really is. Novak Djokovic’s 2021 season and potential CSG is by a large distant the tennis achievement with the biggest asterix attached to it.

Let’s start from the beginning of the year. At the Australian Open the Serb looked more then beatable. Let’s be honest, in any other era Djokovic would have lost before the final. Fritz should have ended him without a shadow of a doubt - I have a hard time seeing any Nole fan not agreeing here - and Zverev aka ”put myself in there maybe” had another US Open like choke. Zverev isn’t 19 or 20 anymore. He’s at an age where you’re supposed to be in your prime. Even Mr Walkman (Raonic) in his 2016 form would have put the hammer down on Djokovic.

In the final Djokovic faced Medvedev, the most in-form player on tour. The Russian turned into a little scared bunny who doesn’t know how to fight and couldn’t help but smile afterwards despite having lost in three humiliating sets with a 20+ match winning streak going into the match. Absolutely pathetic. Granted, Djokovic played a great final but Medvedev’s attitude and lack of fight is an embarrassment.

Nonetheless, Medvedev’s shameful performance shouldn’t even have mattered. Novak Djokovic in any other era wouldn’t have reached the final.

Let’s fast forward to RG. Djokovic survives Musetti after being behind 0-2. Musetti, aged 19(!!!!), retired without an injury at the end of the fifth set. I mean, come on, at this point I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. The only thing to conclude is that it was a joke. No wonder Djokovic offered him a first class seat for free on his private jet to Wimbledon.

”But Djokovic’s superb and super human win against Rafa in the semis!??”, I can already hear Djokovic fans screaming in their heads. Yes, the Rafael Nadal with a severe foot injury who could barely move the last 1,5 sets. On paper a great win but looking at it with context - especially after seeing how Nadal has struggled with even training and playing matches after RG - it is not that special. Federer would have had 4 DCGS should he dealt with this Rafa in 05, 06, 07 and 11. But luck was on Djokovic’s side just like in 2015 but then Wawrinka stood in the way in the end. It’s quite telling that Fed had to face demon versions of Nadal every time whereas Djokovic could stomp on the two worst versions of Rafa at RG.

In the final Tsitsipas provided an epic choke in the last three sets. In the press conference afterwards he said he learned that he had to win 3 sets and not 2. That’s the kind of opposition Djokovic has had to face. If not an injured Nadal, it has been next gen players thinking they’re demi Gods thanks to social media.

Ok, Wimbledon... the biggest joke of a Grand Slam tournament in this millenium. Djokovic played at 1,5/5 level throughout the tournament and barely lost a set. Another next gen player in the final who couldn’t handle pressure. Wimbledon was a giant joke. Any Djokovic fan stating he is at least close to a neutral observer will have to nod his head in agreement.

Now, US Open is around the corner. Nadal is injured and out. Federer once again is out. Djokovic without having to face his two biggest rivals has the opportunity to achieve the calender Grand Slam. Wawrinka is out. Any other decent older player is not there, retired or out of form. What is left are the same players who have given Djokovic 3 Grand Slam titles on a plate this year. At this stage you’ll have to wonder if they’ll be at the podium after the final so Djokovic can Thank them in person: ”Without you guys it wouldn’t be possible!” He would say before going on to talk about his team and coaches.

I’m not even going to include a poll. It’s not a question, it’s a mere case of stating the obvious: Novak Djokovic’s achievements in 2021 and potential CSG has the biggest Asterix attached to it in tennis history, possibly even in sport’s history.
Click to expand...

Grow up, fe-d-****s

 
liriel

liriel

Semi-Pro
wangs78 said:
I also think that the pandemic has helped Novak. The younger players probably view the pandemic as an added burden with the quarantine requirements and so forth and use it to justify to themselves why they came up short yet again
Click to expand...
Some of the new gen literally said that and how much they hate covid restrictions. They were born in a different era more spoiled delicate and are semi-gods on Instagram without achieving slams. No player likes covid restrictions. For Novak it's just an annoyance. He's Serbian! Also older players didn't benefit from covid because they were getting (too) old and rusty.
 
liriel

liriel

Semi-Pro
The truth is in the middle. Tennis-wise Roger will be always remembered for being a magician and some other achievements but Novak probably would be a GOAT. The highest achievement.
However, brand-wise - Fed is a brand. Like Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods. I don't follow basketball, golf, F1 but I know who they are.
 
O

OldBalls

Semi-Pro
SardinesForDinner said:
It’s time to call it for what it really is. Novak Djokovic’s 2021 season and potential CSG is by a large distant the tennis achievement with the biggest asterix attached to it.

Let’s start from the beginning of the year. At the Australian Open the Serb looked more then beatable. Let’s be honest, in any other era Djokovic would have lost before the final. Fritz should have ended him without a shadow of a doubt - I have a hard time seeing any Nole fan not agreeing here - and Zverev aka ”put myself in there maybe” had another US Open like choke. Zverev isn’t 19 or 20 anymore. He’s at an age where you’re supposed to be in your prime. Even Mr Walkman (Raonic) in his 2016 form would have put the hammer down on Djokovic.

In the final Djokovic faced Medvedev, the most in-form player on tour. The Russian turned into a little scared bunny who doesn’t know how to fight and couldn’t help but smile afterwards despite having lost in three humiliating sets with a 20+ match winning streak going into the match. Absolutely pathetic. Granted, Djokovic played a great final but Medvedev’s attitude and lack of fight is an embarrassment.

Nonetheless, Medvedev’s shameful performance shouldn’t even have mattered. Novak Djokovic in any other era wouldn’t have reached the final.

Let’s fast forward to RG. Djokovic survives Musetti after being behind 0-2. Musetti, aged 19(!!!!), retired without an injury at the end of the fifth set. I mean, come on, at this point I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. The only thing to conclude is that it was a joke. No wonder Djokovic offered him a first class seat for free on his private jet to Wimbledon.

”But Djokovic’s superb and super human win against Rafa in the semis!??”, I can already hear Djokovic fans screaming in their heads. Yes, the Rafael Nadal with a severe foot injury who could barely move the last 1,5 sets. On paper a great win but looking at it with context - especially after seeing how Nadal has struggled with even training and playing matches after RG - it is not that special. Federer would have had 4 DCGS should he dealt with this Rafa in 05, 06, 07 and 11. But luck was on Djokovic’s side just like in 2015 but then Wawrinka stood in the way in the end. It’s quite telling that Fed had to face demon versions of Nadal every time whereas Djokovic could stomp on the two worst versions of Rafa at RG.

In the final Tsitsipas provided an epic choke in the last three sets. In the press conference afterwards he said he learned that he had to win 3 sets and not 2. That’s the kind of opposition Djokovic has had to face. If not an injured Nadal, it has been next gen players thinking they’re demi Gods thanks to social media.

Ok, Wimbledon... the biggest joke of a Grand Slam tournament in this millenium. Djokovic played at 1,5/5 level throughout the tournament and barely lost a set. Another next gen player in the final who couldn’t handle pressure. Wimbledon was a giant joke. Any Djokovic fan stating he is at least close to a neutral observer will have to nod his head in agreement.

Now, US Open is around the corner. Nadal is injured and out. Federer once again is out. Djokovic without having to face his two biggest rivals has the opportunity to achieve the calender Grand Slam. Wawrinka is out. Any other decent older player is not there, retired or out of form. What is left are the same players who have given Djokovic 3 Grand Slam titles on a plate this year. At this stage you’ll have to wonder if they’ll be at the podium after the final so Djokovic can Thank them in person: ”Without you guys it wouldn’t be possible!” He would say before going on to talk about his team and coaches.

I’m not even going to include a poll. It’s not a question, it’s a mere case of stating the obvious: Novak Djokovic’s achievements in 2021 and potential CSG has the biggest Asterix attached to it in tennis history, possibly even in sport’s history.
Click to expand...

Imagine just how fkn jealous and angry one would have to be to write up all that now that we are 1 week out from the uso. The walls are caving in.
 
O

OldBalls

Semi-Pro
Antonio Puente said:
Why is the CYGS so valuable? It's so valuable because it's extremely difficult to do. Well, this hasn't been difficult at all. Djoker has one signature win in 2021, over an injured and aging Nadal. In fact, Djoker isn't even playing that well. Playing at this level in years past, Djoker might have one slam at this point.

If Djoker manages it, I'm afraid it won't have the value Djoker fans are hoping it will. Had Djoker completed a CYGS in 2008, you would bow down to him. This? Not so much.
Click to expand...
Bamos bamos boy! My condolences on your loss this week - rafa will never win another slam again. Youll have to watch novak continue to be the doninant force in tennis. Enjoy! Bamos bamo!
 
itrium84

itrium84

Hall of Fame
SardinesForDinner said:
It’s time to call it for what it really is. Novak Djokovic’s 2021 season and potential CSG is by a large distant the tennis achievement with the biggest asterix attached to it.

Let’s start from the beginning of the year. At the Australian Open the Serb looked more then beatable. Let’s be honest, in any other era Djokovic would have lost before the final. Fritz should have ended him without a shadow of a doubt - I have a hard time seeing any Nole fan not agreeing here - and Zverev aka ”put myself in there maybe” had another US Open like choke. Zverev isn’t 19 or 20 anymore. He’s at an age where you’re supposed to be in your prime. Even Mr Walkman (Raonic) in his 2016 form would have put the hammer down on Djokovic.

In the final Djokovic faced Medvedev, the most in-form player on tour. The Russian turned into a little scared bunny who doesn’t know how to fight and couldn’t help but smile afterwards despite having lost in three humiliating sets with a 20+ match winning streak going into the match. Absolutely pathetic. Granted, Djokovic played a great final but Medvedev’s attitude and lack of fight is an embarrassment.

Nonetheless, Medvedev’s shameful performance shouldn’t even have mattered. Novak Djokovic in any other era wouldn’t have reached the final.

Let’s fast forward to RG. Djokovic survives Musetti after being behind 0-2. Musetti, aged 19(!!!!), retired without an injury at the end of the fifth set. I mean, come on, at this point I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. The only thing to conclude is that it was a joke. No wonder Djokovic offered him a first class seat for free on his private jet to Wimbledon.

”But Djokovic’s superb and super human win against Rafa in the semis!??”, I can already hear Djokovic fans screaming in their heads. Yes, the Rafael Nadal with a severe foot injury who could barely move the last 1,5 sets. On paper a great win but looking at it with context - especially after seeing how Nadal has struggled with even training and playing matches after RG - it is not that special. Federer would have had 4 DCGS should he dealt with this Rafa in 05, 06, 07 and 11. But luck was on Djokovic’s side just like in 2015 but then Wawrinka stood in the way in the end. It’s quite telling that Fed had to face demon versions of Nadal every time whereas Djokovic could stomp on the two worst versions of Rafa at RG.

In the final Tsitsipas provided an epic choke in the last three sets. In the press conference afterwards he said he learned that he had to win 3 sets and not 2. That’s the kind of opposition Djokovic has had to face. If not an injured Nadal, it has been next gen players thinking they’re demi Gods thanks to social media.

Ok, Wimbledon... the biggest joke of a Grand Slam tournament in this millenium. Djokovic played at 1,5/5 level throughout the tournament and barely lost a set. Another next gen player in the final who couldn’t handle pressure. Wimbledon was a giant joke. Any Djokovic fan stating he is at least close to a neutral observer will have to nod his head in agreement.

Now, US Open is around the corner. Nadal is injured and out. Federer once again is out. Djokovic without having to face his two biggest rivals has the opportunity to achieve the calender Grand Slam. Wawrinka is out. Any other decent older player is not there, retired or out of form. What is left are the same players who have given Djokovic 3 Grand Slam titles on a plate this year. At this stage you’ll have to wonder if they’ll be at the podium after the final so Djokovic can Thank them in person: ”Without you guys it wouldn’t be possible!” He would say before going on to talk about his team and coaches.

I’m not even going to include a poll. It’s not a question, it’s a mere case of stating the obvious: Novak Djokovic’s achievements in 2021 and potential CSG has the biggest Asterix attached to it in tennis history, possibly even in sport’s history.
Click to expand...
There's so much salt in your tears, that can't be healthy. I enjoyed your rant so much I'll read it again. :)
 
RaulRamirez

RaulRamirez

Legend
liriel said:
Reasonable post but I believe (I might be wrong) the OP didn't mean the GOAT debate but the fact that Novak's best year tennis wise and the one that will make history will not be his best at all. It's reasonable on his part. Don't look for hate that's my motto here.
I'll just add it's not Novak's fault that his opponents didn't step up. At all.
Click to expand...
Unfortunately, one doesn't have to look for hate. It practically jumps off the screen at times.
 
TearTheRoofOff

TearTheRoofOff

G.O.A.T.
A sport is enjoyed primarily because of the faculties it facilitates, particularly in the prevalent recipes for victory. Fed provided the illusion that the blueprint for success was necessarily captivating, and for that he has my thanks.

Anyhoo, back to the bwehs and the unforced errors.
 
GabeT

GabeT

G.O.A.T.
liriel said:
Reasonable post but I believe (I might be wrong) the OP didn't mean the GOAT debate but the fact that Novak's best year tennis wise and the one that will make history will not be his best at all. It's reasonable on his part. Don't look for hate that's my motto here.
I'll just add it's not Novak's fault that his opponents didn't step up. At all.
Click to expand...
2017 will go down as one of Fed’s greatest seasons yet no one claims that was his best tennis.

I find this obsession with “peak” seasons strange, particularly for the Big 3. Their careers have spanned decades, and are longer than most other players. Only a few of those years are likely to be peak play. Are we meant to ignore the rest?
 
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