Marian Vajda is known to everybody as the coach of world No.1 Novak Djokovic, but his involvement in tennis goes beyond that.
A former Olympian himself, Vajda played competitively between 1982-1995. During that period he achieved a ranking high of 57th in the singles and claimed two ATP titles (Prague, 1987 and Geneva, 1988). After retiring from the tour, he went on to become the Fed and Davis Cup captain of his country prior to working with Djokovic.
A lot of changed since Vajda was playing on the tour, but he still sees some similarities. One of those being Roger Federer. The Swiss player is the oldest man currently ranked in the top 100. Vajda is a close follower of the world No.3 due to his rivalry with Djokovic. The two last locked horns at the Paris Masters earlier this month when the Serbian prevailed in three sets. Although Vajda believes Federer ‘didn’t play well’ on that occasion.
“It’s amazing to be still playing at the age of 37.” He said. “It is like in the past with players, we never wanted to end it (our careers) in our thirties. In the seventies, there was (John) Newcombe playing until the age of 37, (Jimmy) Connors until 41.”
“Federer is kind of old class. He doesn’t have it in his mind to stop, he feels good.”
The current landscape of men’s tennis continues to be dominated by the well established Big Four contingent, who are all aged over 30. The questions remain as to who will be able to fill their shoes in the future?
Alexander Zverev is the frontrunner to take over. The 21-year-old is currently ranked fifth in the world rankings and has claimed nine titles on the tour, including three at Masters level. He is currently on the right path to the top, but it isn’t necessarily certain.
“There is still a big gap and he needs to work a little bit more.” Vajda commented when analyzing Zverev’s his game.
Guiding the German on the tour is Ivan Lendl. A multiple grand slam champion that had previously enjoyed a successful coaching stint with Andy Murray. The collaboration is one backed by Vajda, who sees similarities between Zverev and a young Djokovic.
“Lendl can do it, he is really focused.” He said. “I told him (Lendl) that he has a very good guy. He reminds me of when I coached Novak when he was young.”
Another player that has caught his attention is Karen Khachanov. The Russian is one of only two players to have only defeated Djokovic since Wimbledon. That was at the Paris Masters where he defeated a total of four top 10 players on route to the biggest title of his career to date.
“Khachanov is a guy who doesn’t have fear. He has a healthy confidence. He has a better serve and forehand than (Daniil) Medvedev.” Vajd concluded.
Part 1 of Vajda’s interview with Ubitennis can be read HERE.
