Novak Djokovic was on a roll once again, just like he was when he left 2015 behind, to date his best tennis season ever. The Serb started where he had left, beating the very best players on the tour easily, commanding the rallies on court and playing superb, stunning tennis. Even Rafael Nadal had to admit that he has never seen someone playing at such a high level, after the Serb beat the Spaniard in straight sets this week in the final of Doha.
Novak had never won the title in Doha before.
“This trophy is very special for me, it reminds me of my Grandfather. He used to call me Hawk“.
Speaking of the match he dominated against Nadal, Novak had to admit he has played a nearly perfect match.
“I came as close as possible to perfection. From the first until the very last point I used the tactic I had planned and worked the strategy I had in mind. The conditions here in Doha have also helped me. Today I was seeing the ball as big as a watermelon”.
The level of confidence is high for the Serb, and why wouldn’t it be? The world No.1 hasn’t lost a set all week, despite playing below par in the first matches, using his best shots only when he needed them the most. To be able to switch on and off your best game is an ability not many have in any sports, especially in tennis. To have that switch means you know you can always find your way out of any situation. That is where Novak’s confidence comes from.
Last year the Serb finished one match shy of completing the calendar Grand Slam, something that was last achieved in men’s tennis in 1969. This year Nole isn’t afraid to speak about his chances to complete the feat.
“It is early for me to talk about calendar Grand Slam. But I do believe anything is achievable if you believe in it, if you work hard for it. Why not? Why not imagine it and hope it will happen? One thing is to want it and one thing is to do it. It would be extraordinary. But yes, it is possible. Last year I missed it for one match, I won 3 Grand Slams out of 4. Also Roger and Rafael have found themselves in a similar situation.”
Playing like he did in 2015 and the way he seems to be able to play in 2016, it is hard to believe the Serb could be stopped any time soon. The opponents will wait, he will have to keep it up. He can achieve it.
