World number three Daniil Medvedev believes anything could change in 2024, except for Novak Djokovic remaining at the peak of his form.
"The only thing we're sure of is that Djokovic is still at the top," Medvedev told The National on December 24. "I might drop out of the top 10, but Djokovic will always be there. So, I hope to maintain my position in the top 4 and compete with the other three, whoever they are."
Medvedev (right) hugs Djokovic after the US Open final in New York in September. Photo: Reuters
Medvedev dropped out of the top 10 at the beginning of 2023, but made a strong comeback with five titles that season. He won 66 matches in 2023, the most on the ATP Tour. The Russian player ended the best year of his career as world number three. However, Medvedev still has some regrets about not winning a Grand Slam – something world number one Djokovic achieved three times in 2023.
Sharing Medvedev's view, former world number four Tim Henman believes Djokovic is likely to continue dominating tennis in 2024: "Djokovic deserves to be trusted, not only because of his exceptional playing style and movement at the age of 36, but also because of his desire and motivation to conquer major titles."
Henman also said that Djokovic is playing with freedom and ease of mind, after years of chasing Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. Currently, Nole leads with 24 Grand Slam titles, two and four more than Nadal and Federer respectively. "He has surpassed them all," Henman added. "His current position is a long-held dream of his. After breaking records, he's playing better than ever."
After praising Djokovic, Medvedev also explained the inconsistent form of other players, mainly due to the long ATP season. "Based on points, we differ at certain times, especially towards the end of the season," Medvedev added. "Every season is different, and anything can happen. For example, Tsitsipas, who reached the Australian Open final earlier this year but declined for the rest of the season for various reasons. Next year, he could come back and beat anyone."
Medvedev also believes he can make a breakthrough next year. "I'm getting older, I'm not 23 anymore and I want to achieve more," the Russian player revealed. "I've improved a lot in the last two years and I want to continue to see where my limits are."
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