World No.1 Novak Djokovic has praised rival Stan Wawrinka after reaching the quarter-finals of the French Open on Monday. The day after the Swiss No.2 did.
Djokovic, who is bidding to claim a fourth consecutive grand slam title at Roland Garros, has hailed Wawrinka as a ‘big-match’ player. Wawrinka is currently relishing in his best run at a major tournament for two years. Highlighted by his marathon five-hour win over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round.
“Stan is a big-match player.” Said Djokovic. “He’s one of these players that throughout his career just managed to find their best game when it was most needed.”
“He’s mentally very strong. I’m not surprised that he’s back at his best. I have seen some parts of yesterday’s match (against Tsitsipas), especially the end. I mean, both of them were winners.”
Djokovic is more than familiar with the game style of the 34-year-old. He first played Wawrinka at the age of 17 at the 2004 Aachen Open. A Challenger event in Germany. Since then, the Serbian has dominated their head-to-head with a 19-5 winning advantage.
“Stan is showing why he’s “the man.” Djokovic joked. “He’s a three-time Grand Slam winner. We cannot forget that. He’s a top guy, and he loves to play big matches. It’s great to see him back.”
The only chance of the two clashing in Paris this year is if they both reach the final. Djokovic will play Alexander Zverev next, whilst Wawrinka faces compatriot Roger Federer. The top seed is yet to drop a set in the tournament and has been backed to win by tennis legend Rod Laver.
“‘I don’t know. I’m probably favouring Novak at the moment and then Rafa and then it goes down the line. Then it’s who’s going to play who.” The 80-year-old told reporters in Paris.
Laver won two calendar grand slams in 1962 and 1969 and is the only person to do that. Djokovic could join him if he triumphs at the French Open later this week.
“‘I marvel at someone like Novak with his ability and his consistency,’ Laver said. “When you look at, you know, the way he plays the game, he doesn’t go bang, bang, bang, ace, volleys. He wins every individual point, you know, from the baseline.’
“So, you know, he’s quite an individual on his own ability. Well, yes, he’s won all four at one time or defending champion at all times, so he’s already done that portion of it.”
Djokovic will play his quarter-final match on Wednesday.
