Novak Djokovic made headlines before the Australian Open. Too many, as Boris Becker says. He gives his ex-protégé advice.
For tennis icon Boris Becker, Novak Djokovic allowed himself too much distraction before the start of the Australian Open this Sunday. “There are too many sideshows for me,” said the six-time Grand Slam tournament winner in the podcast “Becker Petkovic,” which he records together with former tennis player Andrea Petkovic.
Djokovic caused a stir with a number of statements, including his appointment of former pro Andy Murray as his new coach, his criticism of Jannik Sinner in the doping case, and his doubles appearance with scandal-prone pro Nick Kyrgios in Brisbane. The Serb also made headlines with his accusation that he was poisoned by a meal in a 2022 Melbourne deportation hotel.
“If that’s the priority right now, then I don’t think it’s good and I think it’s even dangerous,” said Becker (57). The 37-year-old’s former coach advised: ‘He’s the most successful player of all time, he still wants to win a Grand Slam. And for that he needs all the energy he has left. And so he has to hold back a bit when it comes to these headlines.’
Djokovic will face underdog Nishesh Basavareddy from the United States in the first round, his goal is the 25th Grand Slam title of his career. It would also be his 11th triumph at the Australian Open. “He should really focus entirely on the sport now, on the first round,” said Becker: “The work is on the court, as they say. And he really has to deliver there now.”
