Bernard Tomic has become the latest player to comment on Novak Djokovic’s dominant performance on the ATP Tour.
The world No.1 kicked off his year with a title at the ExxonMobil Open in Doha last week. After producing four straight set wins in Doha, Djokovic produced a sensational 6-1, 6-2, win over 9-time French Open champion Rafael Nadal in the final. The dominant performance has indicated that the Serbian is still in the same form as his record breaking 2015. Last year Djokovic claimed 12 titles to become the first tennis player in history to earn over $20 million in prize money within one season.
The achievement has earned admiration and envy from numerous players on both the ATP and WTA Tour. Speaking about Djokovic’s current form, world No.17 Tomic described it as a ‘joke‘.
“Novak, it’s just a joke now. It’s amazing what he’s doing. That’s the reason why he’s the best player in the world,” Tomic said.
“I think even Roger and Rafa are just … when you step on the court against Novak now, it’s like: How can you beat him?’
“Even Rafa playing that final in Doha, it was amazing tennis to watch, but so comfortable, and on score just shows how much Novak is dominating the sport.
Tomic made the comments following his straight sets win over compatriot Jordan Thompson in the second round of the Apia Open in Sydney. The Australian has played the world No.1 six times since 2011. His only triumph over the Serbian occurred at the 2013 Hopman Cup. Discussing what it is that makes Djokovic so dominant on the tour, he said that the world No.1 has ‘no weaknesses’ in his game.
“I think he is a different level, Novak, now, and there is a reason why he’s there. I think the other players, there are a little bit more weaknesses and stuff”. The 23-year-old said.
“There is a reason why Novak is the best; no weaknesses. I can’t think of any. He deserves to be there.”
Next week Djokovic will be bidding to win his sixth title at the Australian Open next week. If he wins the title, the world No.1 will be elevated to fifth in the all-time list for the most Grand Slam titles. Currently Djokovic is seventh in the list with ten titles, seven behind Roger Federer’s record of 17.
