Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic is concerned about the threat posed by rising Australian Alexei Popyrin as he tries to regain his title.
The 24-time Grand Slam winner, who still seems to be struggling with his form following knee surgery four weeks ago, believes the lanky Sydneysider is developing into a complete player.
The pair played at the Australian Open in January, where Djokovic prevailed in four sets, but only after the strong server Popyrin saved set points and built a 2-1 lead.
“I saw that he won today in a five-set thriller,” said Djokovic, commenting on Popyrin’s outstanding victory over Tomas Martin Etcheverry, the 30th-seeded Argentine.
“Strong serve. Strong forehand. He loves that serve-plus-forehand game. We had a good match, a very good match in Australia.”
“I think he has improved a lot on his backhand and his movements, which may not have been so good in the past. He is developing into a very complete player. He is a big guy and is not afraid to score the point at the net.”
“When he serves well, it is very difficult to play against him. Anyone on the grass who serves as well as he does …
“I think one of the keys in this match will be how well I can read his serves and get them back in play so he has to work for his points. I have to serve well myself too.
“I obviously expect a tough challenge.”
Djokovic is obviously not satisfied with his level after struggling to face the brave British outsider Jacob Fearnley.
“I feel like it’s affecting my movements a little bit in terms of speed,” Djokovic said of his ongoing recovery after surgery he needed to repair his knee problems at the French Open.
“It’s not where I want it to be yet. I’m a little late on the balls that I’m not usually late on.”
This all offers the 24-year-old Popyrin another golden opportunity in her third-round fight on Saturday (Sunday morning AEST).
“I think it’s important that I serve well. He’s the best returner in the world. It will be tough, but I know I can do it,” said Popyrin, ranked 47th in the world.
“I served pretty well in Australia, but as far as confidence goes, I’m just going to go out there and enjoy the moment.
“I think I have what it takes, but I’ve said that before against big players and come up short, so I’m going to keep my mouth shut now!”