View Full Version : Novak Djokovic
http://tennismash.com/2016/09/29/now-novak-djokovic/
I am sure that TM15 remembers what I said to her at Wimbledon about expecting a sharp drop in Novak's form. It is all happening as I expected.
I am sure that TM15 remembers what I said to her at Wimbledon about expecting a sharp drop in Novak's form. It is all happening as I expected.
What made you think that would happen Linda?
20/09/16....'Novak Djokovic is determined to finish the season on a high after admitting he lost his enjoyment of the sport after winning the French Open'.
http://www.skysports.com/tennis/news/12040/10585624/novak-djokovic-targets-strong-finish-to-2016-after-lacklustre-second-half-of-season
I guess he wasn't ready to suggest he might be pulling out of China open, ever hopeful. What a difference a week made.
JAMES4578
29-09-2016, 21:18
Obviously a few issues but doubt anything serious for Djokovic.
I just get the feeling that all is not well in the Djoko camp and I don't think it's just down to injury. I have absolutely no evidence for saying that - just a gut feeling.
themass15
29-09-2016, 21:31
I am sure that TM15 remembers what I said to her at Wimbledon about expecting a sharp drop in Novak's form. It is all happening as I expected.
Spot on Linda!
RosieBear
30-09-2016, 06:49
I don't dislike Djokovic but I do dislike reality tv. So I wouldn't watch this regardless. I don't understand why you'd invite all that tv camera and publicity stuff into your life. It would probably make it more likely they would follow you about in your private life. I guess maybe he's more comfortable with it than others
This how I feel too, Jerry. I like Novak but can't bear Reality TV. Imo it's for pathetic individuals who despite having zero discernablee talent are convinced they are special and worthy of fame and adoration. Why Novak, who is legitimately talented and respected, would go down this route is beyond my understanding. Bizarre! :confused::confused::confused:
I just get the feeling that all is not well in the Djoko camp and I don't think it's just down to injury. I have absolutely no evidence for saying that - just a gut feeling.
Completely agree.
This how I feel too, Jerry. I like Novak but can't bear Reality TV. Imo it's for pathetic individuals who despite having zero discernablee talent are convinced they are special and worthy of fame and adoration. Why Novak, who is legitimately talented and respected, would go down this route is beyond my understanding. Bizarre! :confused::confused::confused:
He wants to be loved. He isn't. I imagine this is another attempt to persuade people what a great guy he is. I wonder if he saw how the programme "The Man with the Racquet" helped change some people's perception of Mr M?
RosieBear
30-09-2016, 09:10
He wants to be loved. He isn't. I imagine this is another attempt to persuade people what a great guy he is. I wonder if he saw how the programme "The Man with the Racquet" helped change some people's perception of Mr M?
Well I'd have to strongly disagree with you there, Teresa. Just because he's on the (long) list of people you don't like, doesn't mean he isn't very well liked, respected and he's absolutely worshipped in Serbia. I agree he doesn't attract the same devotion as Fed and Rafa, but that's because they were there first, are still playing and tennis fans are extremely loyal. But there's a big world out there, and Novak's liked plenty by many.
themass15
30-09-2016, 10:22
Not my favourite, but agree with a lot of what RB says
Just don't get the feeling he's loved by that many as I watch the various tournaments around the world and I don't get the impression he thinks he is either RB.
I agree with Teresa and Pabbers. I think he is well respected for his talent but, judging by the reaction of many neutral crowds, I don't think he's generally loved. I don't know why that is really because he tries very hard to court the crowd - maybe he just tries too hard. I definitely think it rankles with him.
Djokovic is training in Belgrade. Some quotes he gave local journalists.
Novak: This is an active vacation - I'm in practice both on court and fitness.
Novak: I am satisfied with the season, I don't have any regrets.
Novak: The plan for now is that I'm going to #Shanghai.
Novak: Number one and titles are not a priority anymore, but I'll be as motivated as always.
Novak: After RG I started to put a lot of pressure on myself, I felt it and I didn't like it.
Novak on Becker's contract: We will talk. He's contributed a lot mentally. #Djokovic
Novak: I'm not thinking about titles, any titles, nor the no 1.
Novak on elbow: There is still a "micro injury", but it's not something worrisome in the long run.
Novak: I'm very close to my maximum, but injuries affected my serve.
Novak: I don't like being labelled in anyway - me as a tennis player, you as journalists, we're all versatile.
Novak: I always enjoy tennis outside tournaments, but at tournaments in the last few months I'm feeling the burden of "history", pressure.
Novak: Everyone is entitled to their opinion - I know who I am and where I am going.
Novak on @DavisCup neutral venue F: Not the best option, I don't like it nor my colleagues.
Novak: Home crowd is one of the biggest reasons players like @DavisCup, but that is not the problem, format is.
Novak: Davis Cup lost its significance in the last few years, best players are not playing because of the scheduling. (2015 excepted surely? :p ;))
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Ctmd0HYWcAELKxc.jpg
Hmmmm - lots to mull over there. So the Davis Cup loses its significance when he and Fed aren't playing - interesting. I think Andy may have something to say about that. If titles and ranking are no longer a priority, what is his motivation? It sounds as though Becker's days may be numbered.
Hmmmm - lots to mull over there. So the Davis Cup loses its significance when he and Fed aren't playing - interesting. I think Andy may have something to say about that. If titles and ranking are no longer a priority, what is his motivation? It sounds as though Becker's days may be numbered.
He comes out with tripe like that and people wonder why I can't stand the man. I imagine Olympic Gold medals don't have any significance either, with Fed not playing and him going out in R1. I agree with you Alis, whatever ails the man its not just injury.
Hmmmm - lots to mull over there. So the Davis Cup loses its significance when he and Fed aren't playing - interesting. I think Andy may have something to say about that. If titles and ranking are no longer a priority, what is his motivation? It sounds as though Becker's days may be numbered.
I don't think he mentioned himself or fed. Only Murray has played recently. Milos didn't play in the last Canada tie. Stani hasn't played in a while, nor has nadal. I would agree that the top players don't play, Murray is the exception not the rule. It is something Murray has said himself and he has talked about ways to get the top guys playing.
I think his motivation is to enjoy playing again. It's not a uncommon thing to suffer from after a big win. Stan said the same after his AO victory. His tennis suffered for a while.
As for Borris he has been travelling less and less with his various injuries and started doing more commentating again so I suspect travelling less is something he wants himself. He has a full on limp now.
themass15
30-09-2016, 15:23
Rafa played in the recent DC tie v India. Not the first day though because he had a stomach upset.
Yes nadal played. But he does not routinely play.
He plays so little he wasn't expected to play and people were surprised even on here when he did.
Take Serbia for example. Murray didn't play and Djokovic didn't play. So the top players did not play. For both the was because of the schedule. Now I had a great time in Serbia. Kyle was great and got the win. However I was disappointed that Murray and djoko didn't play. That is what I was hoping for. Honestly would I have enjoyed it more if they would have done? Yes. I love seeing the top players play each other. Personally I think DC would be better if the top players played routinely.
RosieBear
30-09-2016, 15:54
Just don't get the feeling he's loved by that many as I watch the various tournaments around the world and I don't get the impression he thinks he is either RB.
I agree with Teresa and Pabbers. I think he is well respected for his talent but, judging by the reaction of many neutral crowds, I don't think he's generally loved. I don't know why that is really because he tries very hard to court the crowd - maybe he just tries too hard. I definitely think it rankles with him.
Ah, but tennis crowds are very small numbers so not representative. Novak has 6.5m followers on Twitter, which is even more than Fed (although Fed more adored by crowds). I believe only Rafa has more followers than Novak. Plenty of love for Novak out there.
Ah, but tennis crowds are very small numbers so not representative. Novak has 6.5m followers on Twitter, which is even more than Fed (although Fed more adored by crowds). I believe only Rafa has more followers than Novak. Plenty of love for Novak out there.
I'm sure that's true, RB, but I think Novak desperately wants the tennis crowds to love him.
themass15
30-09-2016, 16:26
Novak does not have as much as adoration as he would like. Sad really, but that's the way it is.
Ah, but tennis crowds are very small numbers so not representative. Novak has 6.5m followers on Twitter, which is even more than Fed (although Fed more adored by crowds). I believe only Rafa has more followers than Novak. Plenty of love for Novak out there.
I have to agree with you RB. I do think there are places where he is not liked as much but there are places where he is worshipped so there is a lot of love out there for him. I actually read an article (and posted it) where it said that the China open would miss him as he is the most famous and most loved in men's tennis in that part of the world. I watch Shanghai and Beijing and he is loved there. He is loved in France, despite that close match with tsonga. The crowds support him big time at the French open. He has a lot of love and support in the Aussie open too.
I don't think he is loved in the us or here in the Federer is. There was that awful match in the us open where the crowd booed him for winning points, cheered when he made errors, shouted abuse. Called out during serves. It was the worst match I have ever seen for terrible crowd behaviour. It was completely unacceptable. I would have raged and smashed things, I liked him before then but my respect and admiration for him came more from that match. He took it like a champ. He didn't let it distract him, he didn't take anything out on them. He was gracious. He was booed when getting his trophy and when asked about the treatment he'd received he played it down. Accepted it. Said Roger was a great favourite and so he understood it. The crowds favour for federer was obvious that day. But Novak was incredible, a real role model. I have since watched that match with my niece who plays tennis. There is so much to learn from it.
If that is one of the examples of the crowd being against him, one of them being on his side came in Canada during the Roger's cup. Novak was playing and some guy kept shouting out, trying to distract him, calling names making comments. Usually Djokovic takes this but it was starting to annoy the crowd. And they were shushing this guy too. The next time the guy shouted the crowd booed him, not djoko. So djoko walked over to where he was sat and asked him what he was doing. The guy slid down in his seat and was obvious embarrassed so Djokovic asked him what he came for and if he came to just shout and make fun. When djoko returned to the court the crowd cheered him.
As a side note my niece plays tennis, she is part of a club and she loves Andy Murray as do all the others, but who is their second favourite Djokovic. When I asked her why he was her second favourite she said because he doesn't play for our country like Murray. (Bless) so I asked her what if he did? And she said well then he would be her joint favourite because he is amazing, and she wanted to no. 1 like him.
Novak does not have as much as adoration as he would like. Sad really, but that's the way it is.
I'm not really sure anyone can say that. How do we know it is what he would like? Does Murray also want to be adored? I don't think it matters to him. But then if I was a millionaire tennis player, world number one who'd won a bunch of titles and gone into the history books as one of the biggest record breakers, with a beautiful and nice wife and a gorgeous little boy, I don't think I would care if jo public liked me either. He wants to express himself, he wants to be respected. But I don't think he needs the love of strangers. He won that US match with nothing but their contempt. I saw him with the ball kids at the world tour finals last year, they were over the moon with him. He puts in with the fans, with the young guys, on the tour, for the players, with the press and the tournies. He does a lot for different charities and gives a lot of himself, he won the humanitarian award. I would imagine that would make anyone happy with who they are regardless of the size of their fan club.
JAMES4578
30-09-2016, 16:37
Well on Twitter Rafa has 11.3 m and Novak now has 6.6m followers, Roger 6.18 m, Andy 3.68 m, Stan only 764,000. However not all followers will be massive fans and Fed was late into the game,imagine Nadal also has younger base. Bit different on Facebook- Fans: Rafa 14.7m Fed 14.6 m, Novak 7.2 m, Andy 3.7 m, Stan 7,646. Serena and Sharapova 7.03m and 4.11m respectively on Twitter, on FB Maria leads 15.5 m to 4.9 m. Of course won't tell whole story and crowds at big events ,some who who will be devoted fans are part of the picture.
themass15
30-09-2016, 16:40
Facebook is an easy way of doing it. I would say despite the above Fed is the most popular (not with me I hasten to add). After Andy, I like Rafa and Delpo.
I don't think he mentioned himself or fed. Only Murray has played recently. Milos didn't play in the last Canada tie. Stani hasn't played in a while, nor has nadal. I would agree that the top players don't play, Murray is the exception not the rule.
No, Djoko didn't mention himself or Fed - he said the 'best players', so I interpreted that as meaning himself and Fed and maybe Stan. However, there were many of the top players who did play and I think would be, quite rightly, less than happy to be dismissed as insignificant - Nishikori, Monfils, Thiem, Berdych, Cilic, Goffin, Del Potro, Tsonga, Ferrer, Gasquet, Sock, Isner etc. etc., not to mention many of the top doubles pairings.
No, Djoko didn't mention himself or Fed - he said the 'best players', so I interpreted that as meaning himself and Fed and maybe Stan. However, there were many of the top players who did play and I think would be, quite rightly, less than happy to be dismissed as insignificant - Nishikori, Monfils, Thiem, Berdych, Cilic, Goffin, Del Potro, Tsonga, Ferrer, Gasquet, Sock, Isner etc. etc., not to mention many of the top doubles pairings.
Many of the players you listed do not play DC regularly, the same as nadal. Delpo does but he has been missing for ages through injury, the French guys are quite good but even they have have a lot of swaps through injury. I love gasguet and tsonga, but I know a lot of people rate tsonga higher than gasguet and were missing him from their team. impossible to know what he meant by top players. I would say it myself that the vast majority of no one players for each country don't play regularly. I think lots of tennis fans aren't fans enough to go when it is the lower guys. Take Serbia for example, I know people who didn't go because they were certain that djoko and murray weren't playing. So for them the Davis cup was less interesting without them. There have been many accounts of Davis cup tied not getting anywhere near capacity when top players don't play. Canada's latest tie was mainly empty seats and that was put down to Raonic not being there.
If it is not a problem then it would t be something the ITF are trying to address with reductions in sets and days. Clearly it is even if it is not for us lucky people in GB as Murray plays more often than not. As I don't know the interview in full, I've only seen it in here and haven't seen the questions I can't say why he didn't mention doubles, maybe he wasn't asked about it. I love tennis and I watch a lot of tennis, if I can't watch it live, I record it and watch it whenever I can. Having said that I don't watch a lot of doubles. Often I don't have time for both and unless it's a couple of players then singles comes first. I know many who don't watch doubles at all. So perhaps the top singles players bring in the bigger crowds. I don't know. But as a lot of the players are saying top players aren't playing (murray has said so to) and they are now looking at ways around it, it must be a problem. I would support a system where players have to make themselves available for a set number of ties a year in DC, but maybe cutting the sets and days will do it.
The remark that I take issue with is that the Davis Cup has lost significance in the last few years. It is so dismissive and devalues the achievements of the GB team. I well remember Djoko saying that winning the Davis Cup marked a turning point in his career - I take it then, that he felt when Serbia won it was truly significant - did all the top players play in all the matches that year? I'm pretty sure that when Switzerland won Fed and Stan felt it was pretty significant too!
I have read posts on other forums over the past couple of years where people have said that the Davis Cup has 'lost significance' and even 'doesn't mean anything any more' so Djoko is not alone in his opinion. They need to do something to get the top players regularly participating again. (And yes, Alis, it annoys me too when I see these things being said.)
1166 1167
Looks like djoko is taking time while he can't play to enjoy life and his family. He is looking skinny but happy. Hopefully this time with his loved ones will help him get his love of the game back.
Hopefully not. I want Mr M to be No 1, and win everything........!!!
I'm certain Andy has the ability to win without requiring djoko to be injured. I prefer to see them play each other and Murray win. What could be better than Andy taking the number one and beating djoko to do it. As well as not wishing unhappiness or injury or anyone lol. Tennis is better for me when the top guys are playing well, not just Andy.
TizMurray
03-10-2016, 12:50
I'm certain Andy has the ability to win without requiring djoko to be injured. I prefer to see them play each other and Murray win. What could be better than Andy taking the number one and beating djoko to do it. As well as not wishing unhappiness or injury or anyone lol. Tennis is better for me when the top guys are playing well, not just Andy.
I find myself agreeing with you and Teresa! Yes I want Andy to be no. 1 and win everything, but, if it's because Djokovic isn't competing, then many people will devalue Andy's no.1 ranking. Andy needs to either reach the no.1 spot or hold on to it, with a fully fit Djokovic in the mix. Obviously I hope he takes the opportunity to rack up some points while Djokovic isn't playing. I have a feeling that if he reaches no 1 or gets very close, during this time, it will give him that extra drop of confidence he needs to start beating Djokovic regularly.
Josephine
03-10-2016, 13:13
I want Andy to be number 1. If Djoko is unfit that is part of the game. Delpo might be number 1 if he hadn't been injured for so long!!
And once Andy is No 1, he can hang on to that by beating Djoko. No-one looks back and says oh he was only number 1 because.... He will always have made it to No 1 and that is all that matters.
In any case I think it is impossible until next spring anyway! By which time I'm sure Djoko will have healed his marriage, and be back in top form.
I wasn't suggesting it would be worth less in Andy took no 1 now, and yes suffering from injury and losing points as a result is part of the game. My point is that for me personally I prefer the top players playing each other in great matches. I would love to Andy win everything but I'd like to see him play djoko, nadal, raonic, Delpo and many other tops guys along the way. Some of my favourite matches have been Andy vs djoko or Andy v Delpo or djoko v nadal etc etc.
For my enjoyment of the matches, for tennis fans and djoko fans and for djoko himself I wish him a speedy recovery. Tennis is better when all the guys are playing well. Wanting djoko to recover and all the guys to play well doesn't make me any less of a Murray fan. It doesn't mean that I don't want Andy to reach number one any less than anyone else. I am a tennis fan, I want to see great tennis. Tennis will not be over for me when Andy retires.
Djoko said he had lost his love for the game. Sometimes you fall out of love with something you used to enjoy. It's a horrible thing lose the joy in something. After going from hating it to loving it, I have myself lost the joy in running. I now have to force myself to go. It can make you sad and stressed if you try to force it. Andy Roddick said, after he retired that he had stopped enjoying playing. He said he was a nightmare to live with and that he is much better since retiring. As a tennis fan that is really sad for me to hear. so I will continue to hope that djoko gets a handle on it.
I feel that Djokovic gained from Andy's year after his back open so it's much the same for them both.
Josephine
03-10-2016, 14:35
I'm sure Djoko will be back soon without any problems and maybe another wee Djoko will be on the way. I am certainly not spending any energy worrying about him!
I feel that Djokovic gained from Andy's year after his back open so it's much the same for them both.
Again I wasn't suggesting Andy shouldn't gain from djoko's absence. Sometimes you are injured or suffering, sometimes other guys are, that is part of the game. I was saying that I prefer it when the top guys are all playing and playing well. When Andy was suffering with his back I didn't enjoy tennis as much. When nadal was injured I didn't enjoy tennis as much. I have missed Delpo. And with djoko out this week I will probably enjoy this tournament less. I am looking forward to Shanghai in the hope that they will all be there.
angiebabez
03-10-2016, 15:14
I certainly wont miss djoko, or enjoy the tourney any less without him! Hes a pain in the ****. Go andy!! Scoop them 500 points up. :yahoo:
I definitely will enjoy this tournament with or without Nole and wished Delpo was there too, with Andy, Rafa ,Ferrer, Gasquet and Pouille and Raonic, what is there not to enjoy. Get a grip.:grrr::grrr:
I'm with JerryD on this one although she did forgot to mention Feddykins among the missing top players......:getcoat:
It seems maybe djoko is trying to find the love again by revisting old haunts where he began to love tennis, in Serbia. He posted an interested video on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/djokovic.official/videos/1250500018336180/
It is a beautiful place, sad that not much remains of it. It seems Jelana was in Serbia for a foundation event anyway. . She has been running the Novak Djokovic Foubdation for some years. It does great work both in their old home of Serbia and elsewhere. I guess with being out of Beijing he had time to travel there for that. I have heard many players say as he does in the video that a wall is your greatest sparring partner. Jelana is good to, maybe little Stephan will get he tennis skills form his mum and dad. :)
I am not a Djoko fan and I can't say I miss him personally because I hated the fact that he was winning everything. BUT .... and it's a big but, I completely get where JerryD is coming from and I know Rosiebear has said similar in the past. I agree that those big matches between the very top guys are what makes tennis so exciting. Those are matches I don't want to miss and now that Djoko has arguably lost a bit of the grip over the top, those matches should be even more exciting ... so he's welcome back ... as long as Andy and my other faves start beating him more often! ;)
TizMurray
04-10-2016, 16:59
I want Andy to be number 1. If Djoko is unfit that is part of the game. Delpo might be number 1 if he hadn't been injured for so long!!
And once Andy is No 1, he can hang on to that by beating Djoko. No-one looks back and says oh he was only number 1 because.... He will always have made it to No 1 and that is all that matters.
In any case I think it is impossible until next spring anyway! By which time I'm sure Djoko will have healed his marriage, and be back in top form.
Mathematically it's possible by the WTF. I wouldn't hold your breath though as it would need Djokovic to be out until then, and Andy to gain maximum points in every tournament he's entered. Even then Andy would have to perform way better than Djokovic at the finals.
roytennisfan
05-10-2016, 11:48
Nice post by Novak to Janko, click the link
We Are Tennis Retweeted
Janko Tipsarevic @TipsarevicJanko 11h11 hours ago
Got a special picture from a special friend this morning...djokernole https://www.instagram.com/p/BLKWBculMOj/
Article about djoko http://www.wimbledon.com/en_GB/news/articles/2016-10-06/whats_next_for_novak_djokovic.html
Also while I was thinking about his current run of form I had to remind myself of what had otherwise been a great year for him tennis wise. 2 grand slams, 4 masters titles, 1 250 title and a 56-6 match win record. I hope that it does get better from here but if it doesn't it is hardly a terrible year.
themass15
07-10-2016, 06:24
Wouldn't worry me if I saw him again this year or not. Gives some others a chance to shine.
supergran
07-10-2016, 08:57
I don't miss him at all. Wouldn't bother me if I never saw him again.:big grin:
I'm with you on that one, Supergran!
themass15
07-10-2016, 13:24
Not a lot of love for Novak on this site.
Wouldn't worry me if I saw him again this year or not. Gives some others a chance to shine.
I don't agree that any other player needs djoko's absence to shine. Murray has shone plenty whilst playing him. My point was about his wins and efforts this year. If he doesn't recover, he has still done well. Whether you like him or not it is something to have won 7 titles in a year.
RosieBear
07-10-2016, 15:38
I don't agree that any other player needs djoko's absence to shine. Murray has shone plenty whilst playing him. My point was about his wins and efforts this year. If he doesn't recover, he has still done well. Whether you like him or not it is something to have won 7 titles in a year.
Could not agree more, JerryD. Andy definitely doesn't need Novak's absence to shine. I get fed up with the suggestion that it's all in Novak's hands, people posting he'll have blip soon, can't keep it up forever etc as if Andy only gets crumbs if Novak's having an off day. I am 100% with you - Novak is a fabulous player, *but* when Andy plays well and *believes in himself* he is even better. Andy doesn't need avoidances or soft options, on his day he's the best in world, he *will* get to number 1 and I want to watch him against a strong Novak along the way, because they are among the most epic encounters in the sport.
I don't think Andy needs Djoko's absence in order to shine. I appreciate that Novak is a great player but I don't enjoy watching him play so I don't miss him when he is absent from a tournament.
themass15
07-10-2016, 16:22
I don't think Andy needs Djoko's absence in order to shine. I appreciate that Novak is a great player but I don't enjoy watching him play so I don't miss him when he is absent from a tournament.
Snap.
tennis890
07-10-2016, 16:32
I don't miss him at all. Wouldn't bother me if I never saw him again.:big grin:
:laugh:
I don't miss him at all. Wouldn't bother me if I never saw him again.:big grin:
Nobody will be suprised to know I am in total agreement with this. Can't stand him.
Not a lot of love for Novak on this site.
I see that but it doesn't mean his achievements are any less. I was thinking that he might withdraw from Shanghai and in the event that he does mentioned the successes he had this year, even if he doesn't finish it in the way he would like. As I see he has arrived in Shanghai then it seems my bright siding was premature.
I personally do like djoko, more than that I respect him for all he has achieved and all he brings to the game, all he does for charity. I post the updates on him because there may be other people out there who like him. Maybe new people will join the forum who like him. The same reason I post on the Berdy thread.
angiebabez
07-10-2016, 20:39
Crikey djoko seems to be getting spoke about nearly as much as andy on here recently :sleepy:
patmoren
07-10-2016, 21:05
I have always been a fan of Novak ever since he and Andy played together as teenagers. Unfortunately fame has gone to his head a bit the same as Federer, it happens a lot with all the adulation they get from the fans. Fortunately Andy has a very grounded family and they wouldn't put up with that kind of behaviour.
I wonder how Djoko's brothers feel about his success. I believe they have both tried the professional circuit with little success. It must be very difficult to try to travel in his wake.
Crikey djoko seems to be getting spoke about nearly as much as andy on here recently :sleepy:
Mostly for people to say they don't like him to be fair :) but it is the djoko thread lol :getcoat: ;)
I wonder how Djoko's brothers feel about his success. I believe they have both tried the professional circuit with little success. It must be very difficult to try to travel in his wake.
Marco gave up. He said everywhere he went people compared him to Novak and for those that lost to Novak they seemed to be more inspired to beat him. He felt as if people were more determined to beat him because he was djoko's brother.
Whether this is true or not is hard to know but I do see that people compare him to djoko, I remember one time in Dubai where he was completely hammered for not being as good as Novak. I guess I'm the end it got too much for him. As for djordje he is even younger. 20 or 21. Novak has said before that he is very good and will be better than Novak but he too has struggled with the shadow of Novak. However despite admitting it was tough, in the past he described his brother as his hero and his inspiration. I think he plays more doubles than singles at the moment and last I saw he was much higher ranked in that than singles.
I posted a video to this feed a few days ago where Novak and djordje along with jelena where in Serbia back at a court they used to play at in Serbia. In the few shots the youngest djoko hits, he looks good, better than Mrs djoko anyway :) :)
angiebabez
08-10-2016, 07:34
It is Djoko's thread!
I meant the site as a whole actually!!
I read very recently that both Marco and Djordje have retired from professional tennis.
One of them - not sure which - is quite regularly in Djoko's box. I wonder if he travels with him as a hitting partner.
themass15
08-10-2016, 10:13
I thought they were going to be better than Novak!
An article where djoko talks about his brothers in Beijing last year when he was playing doubles with djordje. I don't think the thoughts of packing in are about talent, I think it's about pressure and mental toughness. http://www.tennis.com/pro-game/2015/10/younger-djokovic-brothers-have-added-pressure/56539/
The last time djordje played was a Serbian futures tournie in July this year. He played in the doubles
It must be hard for them. It's one of the reasons I was glad Mr M and Kim produced a little girl. The pressure on a boy by the media would have been ridiculous. I hope the little one takes after mum, not dad.
Murray after his Edmund match gave his opinion on Novak's struggles. I have to say I completely agree with him...
“It can happen at different stages. When you achieve something that you've wanted to achieve for such a long time and put so much effort and thought into that, and come close a number of times and not quite done it, I think when you finally do it, you feel incredible for a number of days afterward. But there can be a low after that.
It would be completely understandable to have those feelings. I'm sure a lot of players have experienced that at different stages after big wins in their career. I think it's quite normal.”
What djoko himself said seemed to suggest that Murray was right and that there is a mental struggle he was facing in addition to any physical problems.
“I don't want to think about winning titles and being the No 1 any more in order to avoid putting pressure on myself. I put too much pressure on myself after winning this year's Roland Garros, and I didn't like it,
I always enjoyed tennis and relished the game away from tournaments too, but in the last few months, all the talk about making history has brought too much pressure. It doesn't mean I no longer want to contribute to the sport, but I also don't want to keep on playing just for the sake of winning titles.”
Although Djoko annoys me sometimes with his antics on court, I don't dislike him and hope he gets through his physical/mental/personal problems and comes to enjoy his life again; there is only one player I dislike (although admire his game) and he's off the scene at the moment.
What djoko himself said seemed to suggest that Murray was right and that there is a mental struggle he was facing in addition to any physical problems.
“I don't want to think about winning titles and being the No 1 any more in order to avoid putting pressure on myself. I put too much pressure on myself after winning this year's Roland Garros, and I didn't like it,
I always enjoyed tennis and relished the game away from tournaments too, but in the last few months, all the talk about making history has brought too much pressure. It doesn't mean I no longer want to contribute to the sport, but I also don't want to keep on playing just for the sake of winning titles.”
Crikey! You could almost read into that, that he's considering retirement! :shocked:
Josephine
09-10-2016, 11:20
I think in fact he is mentally preparing himself for the time when he is no longer No 1 and winning majority of slams. Because he knows how hard it is to do that both physically and mentally.
It is a way to take the pressure off. If he loses now -it is not because he is not good enough or because anything else has had to change?? but because he has decided it is no longer his priority. So if he loses he can say (to himself) if he REALLY wanted to he could still win. If he wins it is a bonus for being so relaxed and not making winning the be all and end all.
And if he loses his number 1 ranking it is because he chose not to make that a priority in life (not because eventually someone might be better than him).
So protects his own considerable self-confidence and self-belief and gives a ready made response to the outside world
I think that is Very cynical and I completely disagree. Would your opinion be the same if it was said by a player other than djoko? He has always said when his opponents have been better. He has always given credit. I don't think this is about he having a ready made excuse for the world. He doesn't need one. It is as he said to take the pressure off.
In interviews he has made it clear that he has lost the love for the game and he wants to get it back. This is a story as old as time and everyone who it has ever happened to has approached it in the same way. Don't make it about wins or rankings. Just get out there and play, make it about enjoying playing so you find the love again. Those who haven't been able to have retired, Roddick said he couldn't find it again himself and became a nightmare to live with. It was one of the reasons given for retiring.
I take djoko at his word that he had lost the love and wants to find it again and my advice would be to stop worrying about results and start just playing match by match. That is what he had decided to do. As for considerable self confidence. That's just ridiculous, his confidence is low, he has said it himself, you don't struggle with pressure when you're confidence is high. When others have lost the love no one accused them of saying so to make sure they had an excuse to defend himself with if their ranking slipped.
I recently lost the love for running, something I enjoyed, after a number of injuries my confidence in my fitness was damaged. As I result of that I began to hate running. Now it is a slog, something I hate to do. I became obsessed with my time even though it would be slower because I wasn't long back at it. Then each time I ran it was slower and more stressful. I used to run at least 5 days a week. Now if I can make myself do it once a week, I consider it a win. I don't check the time, or distance, I run until I want to stop and try not to think about the rest. I would be devastated if people accused me of saying I'd lost the love to excuse my slow time in a race. Maybe my own experience has taught me that you can just start to hate something you once loved, and it is really difficult to get that back.
Crikey! You could almost read into that, that he's considering retirement! :shocked:
I agree Caro, I suspect that like Roddick, if he can't find the love again he might have to give up. Roddick said he was lucky his wife was so patient with him. It isn't really a tennis players permanent life, it's 20 years at most. It's not worth losing other things over, something that Roddick realised, saying himself he only realised just in time. I think that if he can't enjoy it again there is no point in continuing, but I hop he can find it. He is going about itch the right way, but it's tough. I guess only time will tell.
goldfish
09-10-2016, 12:53
Andy struggled after he won Wimbledon for the first time. Surely it's natural when you've achieved a milestone you've been seeking for so long, that it can take a while to reset goals. Having achieved so much, Djokovic can only do more of the same. It is for this same reason that it is amazing that Federer retains his hunger to carry on at his age. This year you can see the very same effect on Kerber after Australia and Puig after the Olympics, though Kerber seems to have recovered her mojo now. I find it completely understandable for such highly motivated and achieving athletes to hanker after different goals. Life on tour must be pretty exhausting, especially when you are nearly always reaching the end of tournaments. I'm not a huge fan of either Djokovic or Federer but I respect their achievements.
Andy has said the same, Goldfish. He did struggle after Wimbledon 2013 but he had the added problem of a dodgy back to contend with.
Being very cynical, I tend to take most of what Djokovic says with a pinch of salt. Personally I would suspect mind games. He has proven to be very adept at such Gamesmanship.
Andy has said the same, Goldfish. He did struggle after Wimbledon 2013 but he had the added problem of a dodgy back to contend with.
Apart from the back in 2013 I think it was the sheer unmitigated relief ithat he had finally got the ghost of Fred Perry off his back, and delivered something the whole nation had been pressurising him to achieve since he first came on the scene. Whatever else he had achieved, if he hadn't won Wimbledon the Great British Public would have considered him to have failed. He also wanted it desperately for himself. I think he says this year though that 2013 was for the Nation, 2016 was for him and his nearest sand dearest.
I don't think your comments are cynical, Josephine. I think they are eminently sensible. Consciously or unconsciously, I believe Djokovic is preparing himself and his public for the loss of the dominance that he has enjoyed for the last few years. Of course, that may well not happen and he may well come back to dominate once again - who knows? Maybe, if he has truly lost his love for the game, he will walk away as Borg did - although I think that unlikely. Either way the next few months should be really interesting.
Josephine
10-10-2016, 00:00
Thanks. Part of what I was trying to say is that this if for Djokovic's own psychological well-being. He is into meditation, mind control and this is a way of taking the pressure off himself. That is his own excuse (or thought through philosophy, if you prefer) to protect his state of mind, while at the same time stating publicly he is no longer trying to 'win everything'.
I think he clearly needed a break away from tennis. He may take another one. I don't for one minute think he has lost his confidence - maybe slightly less cocky which is a good thing. I don't think he has permanently lost his love for the game - I think he will be back for a long time and winning again. But maybe without quite the same dominance, because in such a demanding sport, no-one can keep such a level of dominance up for years without a blip or a fall back. Happened to Federer and Nadal. And Djokovic knows that too.
But I'm sure he will be there for a while, winning, beating his breast and loving every minute of it.
I think it's hard to say with the way he has played recently that he hasn't lost his confidence. A lot of tennis come down to that. The other players seem to think so and he has said so himself. He and the other players know better than we do. It is cynical to assume when he says so he is lying as part of some scheme. He never said he had permenantly lost his love of the game, it is not what I said either. What I said was he has for now and he is trying to find a way back to it. Many players have said so in the past and have been taken at their word.
I think he can find his love for it again, I certainly hope so, because if he can't find is love for a game that has brought him so much, I don't feel confident about my own ability to start enjoying something again that hasn't given me anywhere near as much and never will. Confidence takes care of most things. For djoko it's not as if he didn't lose in the past, losing that French open final last year had to hurt, but confidence and enjoying what you do plays a huge part in deciding how you take loss. When you are confident and things don't go to plan it's easy to think oh well tomorrow is another day. When you are low in confidence the same loss is completely different. Suddenly it's about questioning what you should do, if you are doing the right thing, what you should change or if you should be doing it at all.
Nadal has suffered with this on and off for the past few years. He was publicly questioning his ability and choices and future. His low confidence made his loses seem more severe. I don't think he has fully recovered from that yet. You still see it in him in the big moments. The doubt. I hope that he is starting to get it back, it seems he has decided to start thinking of this year as just a way to prepare for next year, that may help him move on. Perhaps the same could work for djoko, trying to just see everything from now on as a bonus. When I mentioned his performance this year which is what lead down to this track of conversation that is what I meant. That to build the love and the confidence he should see it was a great year in many respects and take everything else that might come as a bonus.
He needs to be confident to better deal with loss. Then when he loses the AU open crown to Murray next year, it won't result in a poor year for him lol
Josephine
10-10-2016, 12:16
He won a Masters 1000 in Toronto, lost to Delpo in Rio as Andy lost to Delpo at DC and was runner up at the US Open. Then he took some time off to have a break as he was fed up playing tennis and to repair his marriage after alleged reports of bad behaviour. He lost at Wimbledon when this all seemed to have come to a head so was understandably distracted, and was obviously exhausted after finally winning French Open and holding all 4 slams.
Don't think he has had that many terrible losses that are supposedly affecting his confidence. He is still No 1 by quite a big margin. He has said he hopes to finish the year off really well. He may not think he is still invincible superman and that is a good thing for him and his psychological well-being, not a bad thing, as it prepares him for the future. I'm sure he will be very happy to be back on the court, may have a rusty start and will play extremely well again very soon.
He did win in Toronto but has said he didn't enjoy it and didn't play well. He played poorly in Wimbledon and poorly in Rio. He played poorly in the USO and has said he wouldn't have got as far as he did without the walkover me he had. The stuff about his marriage is all rumour, none of which has been confirmed by him. Ranking does not dictate confidence him feeing that he hasn't played well since the first half of the year is what lowers confidence. It is true he hasn't played well. Without the great achievements earlier in the year he wouldn't still be number one. Like I said in my first comment, until Wimbledon he had a great year. Many guys didn't play and many didn't play well, in Toronto, perhaps he knows that. He talks of his terrible losses and I take him at his word. I don't assume what he must be thinking and feeing. When he walked of the court in Rio in tears he considered it a terrible loss. Delpo was fantastic but if he thinks he failed in that one it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks.
On his losses and lack of confidence we will have to agree to disagree. If he says he is struggling with confidence and pressure and to find the love and enjoyment on the court, then I believe him. He thinks that changing his mindset will help and I'm sure it will. Other players have had times like these and found a way through them. I'm certain he will too. It just takes time.
He is trying to put his new mindset into practice in Shanghai and I hope it works out for him. At least until a potential semi with Nadal, because I think nadal needs that win more than djoko does. I also want to raffa to be certain of his place in London in his head so hoping for him in the Murray final. But that is for the nadal thread.
Djoko interview from Shanghai
Since completing the career Grand Slam by winning Roland Garros in June, Djokovic said he has struggled to enjoy his time on the court. After winning Roland Garros, he said, “I was obviously very content, but on the other hand I was also very exhausted and I needed some time to recover, to regroup.”
To help that process, Djokovic is changing his focus, from winning titles to simply enjoying his time on the court.
“My approach is just different,” he said during his pre-tournament press conference. “The last three months were up and down, a little bit with oscillations, but generally I didn't find that kind of satisfaction on the court, which is the very reason and the source of my motivation to play tennis... So that's my priority now, to get back into that inner joy and really feeling happy for being on the court, and everything else comes second and behind that.”
On injuries ...
He said he feels healthy again. His left wrist bothered him before the US Open, and he withdrew from last week's China Open in Beijing because of an elbow injury.
“Everything is fine,” he said. “Glad that I'm back in Shanghai, and I have been practising the last couple of weeks and trying to get myself in the right competitive mode, which I think is something that I'm going to reach this week, next week.”
On what came before now ...
“I'm happy to be back in Shanghai,” he said. “The only way I can predict the future is to create the future. I try to create a future for myself by being in the present moment. I don't try to think what has happened before or what's coming later on. I believe that in this very moment. This kind of thinking and mindset is the best for me.”
I have to agree. The only way to move on from what came before is to let it go. Otherwise it leads to more lost matches. There will be more titles, more wins, more confidence. It's unlikely but there may be another shot at the gold. If there isn't it's tough luck but thinking about it doesn't help.
Djoko is up against fognini in the second round tomorrow in Shanghai.
themass15
10-10-2016, 15:09
He could win that very easily but, on the other hand, it depends which Fabio shows up.
He could win that very easily but, on the other hand, it depends which Fabio shows up.
I couldn't agree more, Fabio is so changeable I never know what to expect.
Josephine
11-10-2016, 18:05
'Tweet from Stuart Fraser @stu_fraser 3h3 hours ago
It may be a heck of a bluff but Novak Djokovic appears as if he could not care less about losing his No 1 ranking.'
That's what is making me annoyed. Now it is a (still quite distant) possibility that Djokovic will lose his No1 spot to Andy, Novak is seen as not really wanting it any more.
So if Andy does get there that will be used to undermine his achievement by many people, especially the lovely Djokovic fans. Oh, Fed injured, Nadal out of form, Djoko couldn't care less.
And that makes me mad! :grrr:
RosieBear
11-10-2016, 19:37
'Tweet from Stuart Fraser @stu_fraser 3h3 hours ago
It may be a heck of a bluff but Novak Djokovic appears as if he could not care less about losing his No 1 ranking.'
That's what is making me annoyed. Now it is a (still quite distant) possibility that Djokovic will lose his No1 spot to Andy, Novak is seen as not really wanting it any more.
So if Andy does get there that will be used to undermine his achievement by many people, especially the lovely Djokovic fans. Oh, Fed injured, Nadal out of form, Djoko couldn't care less.
And that makes me mad! :grrr:
Don't you worry Josie Jo - when (not if) Andy gets to #1 his fans will know, respect and celebrate what a truly magnificent and special achievement that is. Nobody will be able to spoil or undermine anything, because Andy's fans know the *truth* and that's all that matters! X
Josephine
11-10-2016, 19:57
Yes. Andy's achievement will be recognised by the right people.:thumbup: And yes that is what matters.
But you know how it works though....
And Djoko 'not caring' any more is quite annoying me! Wait and see he will probably win Shanghai.... and Paris.... and London.
I don't think it matters that djoko is not prioritising it. He is trying to find the love and take the pressure off and that is his business. He has to do what he needs to, in order to enjoy playing again. He said he was looking to get back that happiness on the court.
Whether djoko is prioritising it or not, it will have been a huge achievement for Andy when he gets there. Andy can't get to number 1 without the amazing play he has put in so far this year or the work he is going to put in. Andy will have worked for it and earned it. I like Novak, not as much as Murray but I do like him. Yet I would say there can be no denying that Murray has been playing better than him. Andy will know this, so will his fans, as for anyone else it doesn't matter what they think.
He is also probably trying to find things for the press to talk about to move them away from other topics he doesnt want them to talk about.
Yes. Andy's achievement will be recognised by the right people.:thumbup: And yes that is what matters.
But you know how it works though....
And Djoko 'not caring' any more is quite annoying me! Wait and see he will probably win Shanghai.... and Paris.... and London.
The media will report it however the like regardless. The story is already being turned to him not caring when what he actually said is being number one and winning tournaments can not be his motivation anymore. It is too much pressure. He daft phrasing was actually that his motivation now is "finding that intrinsic happiness on the court again" Not that he doesn't care about winning or being number one. That his goal is to enjoy tennis again. Suggesting that he said he's not bothered anyway is the media's way of creating a narrative that gets more people talking and could even be used to hint at a rift between Murray and djoko, it sparks interest and sells papers true or not.
I'm sure djoko's goal after enjoying it again would be winning and keeping number one. Those things just aren't his main goal right now. As soon as he is enjoying himself again, whether it's this week next or next year, those things will become his top goals again. It's in athletes to be competitive to want to win. That feeling will come back to him once he's out of this "funk" as sky sports keep calling it. It reminds me of Delpo, people and Delpo himself keeps saying he's just happy to be playing after injury. I believe him, he does seem grateful to be back. But I have no doubt that once he starts to feel comfortable that his injury is a bay for a while his goals will be to win and move up the ranking, not just to be able to play.
patmoren
11-10-2016, 20:30
What a load of rubbish!!
What a load of rubbish!!
I am inclined to agree with you. If anything I would say that a lot of this is him trying to justify to the world and probably himself his poor showing at Rio. I think that did give him a major knock. Rather like Feddykins in 2012 he went into that tournament expecting to come away with the Gold. Whilst I can't stand the man, I do accept that he has a great loyalty to his country (although not enough to pay his taxes there...!!!!), and I imagine he felt he had let it down by not coming away with a medal.
I also agree with Cazza99 that he is probably keen to divert the discussion away from the speculation about his private life.
angiebabez
11-10-2016, 21:28
What a load of rubbish!!
Yup.....
Everything Djokovic has been saying recently about his priorities is to explain his sudden loss of form and to reassure his wife after his 'personal problems'. I don't believe him when he says that he is not aware that Andy is closing in on his no1 spot and I expect him to find his form and start winning again. Hopefully not this week.
themass15
12-10-2016, 15:12
Am sure it is just another of his tactics.
Novak surely is telling porkies. He has a champion's pride and will have it in his mind to beat some of Fed's records especially the number of grand slams won. He will want his name among the greats of the game.
banskogirl
12-10-2016, 17:58
What a load of rubbish!!
Well said Pat! We all saw how devastated he was when he lost in Rio, this to me is just a way to save face! He had a couple of years without Andy at his heels because of the surgery and he needs excuses now........bring it on is all I can say!
lovetennis
12-10-2016, 18:07
It's completely laughable for Novak to say he wasn't aware of the closing gap in the rankings. He has always been the master of mindgames so this is just his latest one. I didn't see his match yesterday but saw on another site that people were commenting on him looking to have lost weight. Not that he wasn''t completely toned and fat-free before! Whatever has been ailing him may or may not have been resolved but I would love Andy to meet him in Sunday's final and trounce him. Maybe I might start to like him better if loses a few matches
He seemed to have lost weight before in a video he posted from Serbia while the Beijing tournie was on. Not in his usually toned lean way, in a couple of steps too far way. He was devasted about the loss in Rio but I think it is that loss that made him think he needs to find a new way of dealing with the pressure. Maybe before he put too much stock in particular tournies and wins.
I'm certain he will be happy that his draw has opened up. I didn't like his chances against dimmi, he should have a better time against Pop. If he makes it to the quarters, I'm sure he'll be happy for Berdy's loss. Though tsonga can play well and get there, I think he will be a real challange in the semis. I love tsonga so I'd be cheering for him in that one. They have had some great matches, one in the French open was particularly amazing and tsonga plays well indoors. Well except when at the world tour finals maybe... But I'm getting waaayyy ahead of myself!
It is stupid for him to say he's not aware. I haven't seen that interview, was that after his win yesterday? I guess it's his way of shutting down the talk and taking the pressure off. He should have just said he didn't want to talk about the rankings, like other players have in the past. It makes him seem insincere.
Perhaps because he is insincere?
Josephine
12-10-2016, 23:57
It may well be true that Djoko's main aim is now to enjoy being on court and not to win slams etc, but why the need to tell the press?
Why not use all his strength of mind which is so important to him, to do that but keep quiet about it. The only reason to make it public is to lessen the impact if he does lose some matches and No 1 ranking - still a very long way away.
And true it stops the speculation about the challenges in life he had to overcome to be a better person.......................................
And Andy's view:
Stuart Fraser @stu_fraser 57m57 minutes ago
Murray: 'Just because it's not a priority doesn't mean he can't win this week and win the World Tour Finals and win the Australian Open.'
Andy not fooled
roytennisfan
13-10-2016, 09:36
Andy has seen everything from Nole the last few years including acting almost dead in a slam final!
RosieBear
13-10-2016, 10:43
Well said Pat! We all saw how devastated he was when he lost in Rio, this to me is just a way to save face! He had a couple of years without Andy at his heels because of the surgery and he needs excuses now........bring it on is all I can say!
Sooo agree, BG. I do like Novak, but would respect him more if he acknowledged that he stole a march on Andy for the best part of 2 years because of Andy's surgery. Never once have I heard Novak acknowledge or admit this. But we know the truth, and that things would have been very different on a level playing field had Andy been fit. But Andy's fitter, stronger than ever now, confident too since reuniting with Ivan, so yes indeedy, bring it on!!
themass15
13-10-2016, 11:37
Would like nothing more than to see Andy beat Djoko in the final of this tournament and at the 02 even better!!!!!!
Sooo agree, BG. I do like Novak, but would respect him more if he acknowledged that he stole a march on Andy for the best part of 2 years because of Andy's surgery. Never once have I heard Novak acknowledge or admit this. But we know the truth, and that things would have been very different on a level playing field had Andy been fit. But Andy's fitter, stronger than ever now, confident too since reuniting with Ivan, so yes indeedy, bring it on!!
Absolutely agree. No one seems to acknowledge that fact.
Bet he's playing possum. He turned today's match against Zverev around after looking down and out. He'll probably spring to life if he and Andy get to the final.
angiebabez
14-10-2016, 20:46
Bet he's playing possum. He turned today's match against Zverev around after looking down and out. He'll probably spring to life if he and Andy get to the final.
Absolutely..i will be shocked if he doesnt!!
JAMES4578
15-10-2016, 00:23
Certainly Novak out of sorts today but will be different matter against Andy if they meet,still would be quietly confident.
Josephine
15-10-2016, 05:36
Bet he's playing possum. He turned today's match against Zverev around after looking down and out. He'll probably spring to life if he and Andy get to the final.
Totally agree.
So Novak beaten by Bautista in straight sets! He is far from his best right now.
Keeptheheid
15-10-2016, 11:01
While he is not my favourite player, I would say Novak's head seems to be all over the place. But well done RBA for staying strong �� and getting the win.
Rosalind
15-10-2016, 11:03
I think even if RBA had not won, Andy would have beaten him easily playing like that. RBA suffered nerves when serving for the match. Andy would know how to deal with those. ND is a different player atm. Weird!
Josephine
15-10-2016, 11:14
maybe missing his hyperbaric chamber or something if he had to stop using it
themass15
15-10-2016, 12:04
Yes I think it is probably down to that. I still think his eye problem in Dubai was probably caused by that but perhaps the benefit from the chamber did not wear off until around Wimbledon time.
Yes I think it is probably down to that. I still think his eye problem in Dubai was probably caused by that but perhaps the benefit from the chamber did not wear off until around Wimbledon time.
Can he still use it in Australia or is it completely banned now?
lovetennis
15-10-2016, 14:40
First time I've been able to see a Djokvic match this week. What on earth is going on in his head? I was actually a bit concerned about him...the head wobbling was really odd. He's obviously frustrated, racquet smashing and shirt ripping all going on. He wasn't happy about getting the time violation but he was very out of order and deserved it. He ripped the shirt and then went to change it at deuce, holding up RBA's serve. He should have waited until the end of the game.It was his own fault if he felt the ripped shirt was impeding him.
Wasn't surprised he lost and well played RBA for holding strong. In a way I wish Djok had made the final as I would have loved seeing Andy beat him, but on the other hand Djok losing now helps close the rankings gap. You have to wonder if with everything else swirling around in Djok's head, he didn't really want to face an Andy final at the moment.
I only watched a little bit, but it did cross my mind whether Djokovic is having some form of breakdown/mental health issues? Those of you who watched it - Did RB win it, or was it more a case of Djokovic losing it?
supergran
15-10-2016, 15:11
I watched the whole match and Roberto BA played very well, kept calm and didn't allow himself to be distracted even after the altercation with the umpire. Djokovic on the other hand seemed to be easily distracted. At first I thought he was playing better than yesterday and he was, in parts, but his weird behaviour is not only disconcerting but to those close to him extremely worrying. Racquet smashing, shirt-tearing, though we know he's done that before, changing shirt during a game and the encouragement of the crowd with that strange smile, all very odd. I think something is definitely wrong with him but don't know the cause. People have suggested not using the chamber, others have remarked on rumours about his personal life but we have no idea. His comment about the match yesterday was also very odd and everyone at Sky remarked on it. Perhaps he needs a break, a rest, psychological counselling to sort him out. Anyway escaping the nipple-offering is such a relief.
themass15
15-10-2016, 17:29
Obviously his current regime is not doing him much good.
Boris is noticeable by his absence.
WimbledonWestie
15-10-2016, 18:04
Boris was very evident on Twitter ranting about Peter Fleming- complaining that Fleming wasn't complimenting Novak. That was the first fill match of Novaks I've seen since the Toronto final - and that was my first since I saw him at Wimbledon v Querrey. Definitely very very odd behaviour and he's way too thin. Don't think there's just 1 issue but things are definitely amiss. Batista Agut played well and stayed focussed, many others would have lost because they played the name not the match so he earned the win- though am not sure he'd have beaten an on form Novak.
I don't dislike Novak and am quite concerned about him, as I would be about anyone displaying such erratic behaviour. The obvious weight loss is worrying too.
I really don't think he looks any thinner than before. He's been lean and wiry for a long time now.
I've been reading what's been posted by his fans. They are quite concerned.
Lately Djoko has been giving audiences where he has been talking about all sorts of New Age stuff, all about meditation and quietness etc. He has given up wearing his cross (I used to see him kiss it) - he apparently used to be an Orthodox Christian, but now wears a crystal instead. He has taken up with some guru and has done vids with him about peace etc. His fans are blaming his wife for all this.
Obviously, despite his protestations of being at peace, he really is not if he is smashing racquets and ripping shirts. I wonder what his wife thought of his behaviour today, if it is indeed her who is leading on the New Age stuff.
Although, one thing he said today has been echoed by so many players - that Carlos Bernardes wants to be the star of the show.
suttontennis
15-10-2016, 21:47
Boris is noticeable by his absence.
Boris was in the audience for tonights Strictly..
angiebabez
15-10-2016, 23:21
What the actual **** imagine blaming his wife for his strange behaviour lol.....thats utterly ridiculous considering the recent *ahem* rumours :laugh:
TizMurray
16-10-2016, 00:38
I don't dislike Novak and am quite concerned about him, as I would be about anyone displaying such erratic behaviour. The obvious weight loss is worrying too.
I do dislike Djokovic, mostly because lets just say imo he doesn't play with a straight bat. I've been saying since early in the year something wasn't quite right. Initially I had no sympathy - after all, most players have problems and injuries etc. He has had less than most in many ways, so suck it up as it were. But, there is some other feel to all this and I do find myself concerned for him.
Can he still use it in Australia or is it completely banned now?
I think that the chamber is only banned in Europe but I'm not totally sure about that. I did read though that the clinic that Djokovic uses in Australia was being investigated because of the sudden death of a client whilst using the chamber.
banskogirl
16-10-2016, 17:36
I think that the chamber is only banned in Europe but I'm not totally sure about that. I did read though that the clinic that Djokovic uses in Australia was being investigated because of the sudden death of a client whilst using the chamber.
I think some were blaming the pod on his eye problems earlier in the year which might mean, added to the above investigation, Nole and his team might have decided against him using it now? Maybe I'm wrong but I never like when words like 'superhuman' are not questioned when used about a 'human'.
We all know brains are just as much use as brawn!
sir coolerking
17-10-2016, 12:17
I think even if RBA had not won, Andy would have beaten him easily playing like that. RBA suffered nerves when serving for the match. Andy would know how to deal with those. ND is a different player atm. Weird!
I actually came to the conclusion that the semi finals were as far as he really wanted to go in Shanghai. He knows he can't compete with Andy on current form and getting a pasting in the Final would have done untold damage.
It is clear that he is carrying a number of issues in his head, he simply does not behave like a man who is concentrating on his job. When he talked about needing to have decent family time over the next couple of weeks I'm sure you could read a lot deeper into that.
I never used to mind Novak too much, then all his antics started to get to me last year and this and I really went off him. However, all the shirt ripping and weird "feel the love" stuff was a little bit amusing to begin with. I now find myself really quite concerned for his mental health, and its no longer funny. Mental health issues are not amusing and I do fear he is displaying some evidence of problems in that area. I don't hold with most New Age stuff myself, but if people find comfort and it helps them then who am I to judge. Wearing a crystal in itself is not a concern, its some of the other stuff. Its probably fair to say he has had a torrid time since winning the FO - whether or not he brought some of that on himself with his alleged relationship difficulties, who knows. But I would like him to seek professional help now, whether its a counsellor, psychologist, psychiatrist, whoever - because mental health problems shouldn't be bottled up and hopefully someone close to him can point him in the right direction. Much though we all want Andy at no.1, I personally would rather its from beating a fully fit Novak than because Novak has gone off the rails.
banskogirl
17-10-2016, 19:10
Perhaps this is just another way of him getting attention............
greatunclebulgaria
17-10-2016, 22:10
Perhaps this is just another way of him getting attention............
ohh I would hope not as that shrieks of even greater underlying problems
and as much as I am not a fan of the antics and the medical time outs, which can be predicted almost to the minuet, I would hate to see him or anyone else suffer with mental health issues
and yes he is way too thin at the moment
Josephine
17-10-2016, 23:57
He has been talking about meditation for some years now. I think it was a couple of Wimbledon's ago when Andy was asked if he meditates like Novak and he said he watches telly to relax!
But maybe Novak is taking it a bit further now. Probably Jelena has found a philosophy for him which preaches monogamy.
Maybe a bit far to say it is mental health issues. Just some sort of frustration about how he is playing and some difficulty in accepting whatever it is in his personal life which has challenged him.
The people I work with follow Buddhist philosophy and go on retreats and meditate - but they are pretty normal people. I did watch a Korean Buddhist film with them and it was very interesting, but I don't think I possess the right qualities to ever achieve any serenity!
banskogirl
18-10-2016, 19:46
ohh I would hope not as that shrieks of even greater underlying problems
and as much as I am not a fan of the antics and the medical time outs, which can be predicted almost to the minuet, I would hate to see him or anyone else suffer with mental health issues
and yes he is way too thin at the moment
Sorry GUB but I was not thinking mental health issue I was just thinking straight forward wanting attention. He has always been annoyed at not being the crowds favourite, now he's getting the 'poor me' vote through nothing IMO other than losing matches and then losing the confidence to win more matches AND all of this just when Andy is about to beat him to a pulp :) so to me he is taking away from Andy by it being him losing and not Andy winning!
Murray rocks
18-10-2016, 22:24
He looks burnt out to me needs a break.
greatunclebulgaria
18-10-2016, 22:39
Sorry GUB but I was not thinking mental health issue I was just thinking straight forward wanting attention. He has always been annoyed at not being the crowds favourite, now he's getting the 'poor me' vote through nothing IMO other than losing matches and then losing the confidence to win more matches AND all of this just when Andy is about to beat him to a pulp :) so to me he is taking away from Andy by it being him losing and not Andy winning!
you see I think for someone of his 'stature' the attention seeking and the look at me, no one else mentality, is a sign of a mental health issue, he is worth millions he has a wife who by all accounts adores him he has a son for who he is the centre of the universe .............so why does he need other peoples adoration??????????????????????????????
Josephine
18-10-2016, 23:31
Because he thinks he is special and unique. And has a huge ego. Like loads of celebrities...
I'm a lot more concerned by people who have mental health problems who have very little, including less and less support, and are not even able to manage their own lives or even go out sometimes.
So sorry, but I have not one iota of sympathy for Novak.
angiebabez
19-10-2016, 07:06
Because he thinks he is special and unique. And has a huge ego. Like loads of celebrities...
I'm a lot more concerned by people who have mental health problems who have very little, including less and less support, and are not even able to manage their own lives or even go out sometimes.
So sorry, but I have not one iota of sympathy for Novak.
Me neither...this is andys time he DESERVES to be no1! If thats tainted by novaks antics because he cant handle his drop in form & throwing tantrums like a stroppy teenager it will be a disgrace.
RosieBear
19-10-2016, 12:03
Honestly don't get why people are getting so worked up on this thread :confused: Who gives a cr@p about what Novak says or does in relation to Andy getting no 1? Just like I don't understand why people get so ruffled by the likes of Annabel and Infidel on other threads - seriously, why let these dumbos get to you. Know the truth of the matter yourself (i.e. Andy's amazing and will the get the fully, truly deserved no 1) and treat everything else as what it is - irrelevant background noise. If you can't separate what matters from what really doesn't, you'll all just stress yourselves and lose pleasure from what is going to be an awesome time for Andy fans.
Completely agree with you RB, that where Andy and the no 1 spot is concerned, us fans should just enjoy it and not worry about what ANYONE else is saying. It really doesn't wind me up that much, I just let it wash over me. I fully intend to enjoy every minute of Andy's success.
As for Novak ... I really don't care that much what is going on! I'm just glad he's not dominating any more but for the record, I agree with Murray Rocks, he's burnt out, he's lacking motivation because he has achieved everything and more that he set out to achieve. Where does he go from there? He is the hunted and has been for some time. It just goes to show how amazing Federer's run at no 1 was (and no I am not a Fed fan). These tennis players are human. But mental health problems?!! Seriously folks, a bit dramatic don't you think?!
angiebabez
19-10-2016, 13:00
Honestly don't get why people are getting so worked up on this thread :confused: Who gives a cr@p about what Novak says or does in relation to Andy getting no 1? Just like I don't understand why people get so ruffled by the likes of Annabel and Infidel on other threads - seriously, why let these dumbos get to you. Know the truth of the matter yourself (i.e. Andy's amazing and will the get the fully, truly deserved no 1) and treat everything else as what it is - irrelevant background noise. If you can't separate what matters from what really doesn't, you'll all just stress yourselves and lose pleasure from what is going to be an awesome time for Andy fans.
We are all different mate with different opinions ;) i certainly wont lose any pleasure thats for sure
I don't know why anyone gets worked up by anything on the internet anywhere!
Unless it's these idiots that tell us that the moon is going to appear the size of Mars, or that if you click Like and Share then you'll be AMAZED at what happens, or any other dodgy clickbait, etc etc etc...
banskogirl
19-10-2016, 13:46
I don't know why anyone gets worked up by anything on the internet anywhere!
Unless it's these idiots that tell us that the moon is going to appear the size of Mars, or that if you click Like and Share then you'll be AMAZED at what happens, or any other dodgy clickbait, etc etc etc...
Oh dear.........so do we click 'thanks' for this post or not Hawkeye? :thanks:
and as for getting worked up.......nope! :)
banskogirl
19-10-2016, 13:55
you see I think for someone of his 'stature' the attention seeking and the look at me, no one else mentality, is a sign of a mental health issue, he is worth millions he has a wife who by all accounts adores him he has a son for who he is the centre of the universe .............so why does he need other peoples adoration??????????????????????????????
hmmmmmmmmm still not convinced GUB :) I remember being puzzled when I started working in school at the types of attention seeking child, 1 the child who received none at home. 2 the child who received only negative attention at home and the one who confused me most at first.....3 the child who was spoiled rotten, the blue eyed boy, who expected it from everyone else ALL THE TIME and right now all I can see is a tennis player who, perhaps only for a little while, was not receiving the expected adoration from the people you mentioned, and wants it back.
I am still not losing sleep over it but the commies don't help, when even after Andy's win on sunday, called him Novak, in the studio, by mistake!
I would much prefer to be talking about Andy!
Rosalind
19-10-2016, 20:19
who knows. He is very thin but watching Simon the other day, I thought the same of him. Andy is so straight-forward and "get what you see". Imagine being a Novak fan - first it was boringly predictable never ending wins and now ... who knows what's gone wrong.
who knows. He is very thin but watching Simon the other day, I thought the same of him. Andy is so straight-forward and "get what you see". Imagine being a Novak fan - first it was boringly predictable never ending wins and now ... who knows what's gone wrong.
I'm sure Novak's fans didn't see his wins as "boringly predictable" and I'm sure we won't when it's Andy ;)
Sallydaisy
30-10-2016, 16:03
Nole ready for Paris ...
Carole Bouchard @carole_bouchard (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard) 24h24 hours ago (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard/status/792399376270360576) Weird to see Djokovic practicing without any coach. Zimonjic hitting with him. GG around. That's all. No Vajda, No Becker. Carole Bouchard @carole_bouchard (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard) 24h24 hours ago (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard/status/792400972035264512)
Zimonjic playing coach and making Djokovic sweat. Eventual protest is met with an other ball to play. They have an interesting relationship.
Carole Bouchard @carole_bouchard (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard) 23h23 hours ago (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard/status/792411157118218240) Novak working on his "moving forward" game a lot. Good. Seems in a good mood too, super chatty and smiling.
Carole Bouchard @carole_bouchard (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard) 23h23 hours ago (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard/status/792412633148317696)
Trying to be discrete, watching now from back of court in a corner. Novak turning to serve,sees me,waves the racquet to say hi. I failed.
Carole Bouchard @carole_bouchard (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard) 36m36 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard/status/792748378123857920) Novak says he feels "rejuvenated". Focused on his own game. Knows that at his best he still can beat anybody. Carole Bouchard @carole_bouchard (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard) 36m36 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard/status/792748378123857920)
Novak says he feels "rejuvenated". Focused on his own game. Knows that at his best he still can beat anybody.
Carole Bouchard @carole_bouchard (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard) 4h4 hours ago (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard/status/792695375517904896) Djokovic at practice right now with Troicki :
Mind games me thinks........
angiebabez
30-10-2016, 19:52
Shes obsessed wae djoko that one.
Shes obsessed wae djoko that one.
............. but so many are.
Shes obsessed wae djoko that one.
But not Leon ;) ;)
I do think it's strange that Djoko is in Paris without either of his coaches.
themass15
30-10-2016, 21:53
Perhaps they will turn up tomorrow.
Sallydaisy
31-10-2016, 00:54
Perhaps they will turn up tomorrow.
*sigh*
It would be really helpful if you'd read the thread before posting supposition.
Your speculation was answered about 6hours ago.
Shes obsessed wae djoko that one.
"shes" French and already in Paris so snagged an early chat with Noley.
I like what she tweets; a good journalist who is usually on the ball with information.
themass15
31-10-2016, 08:31
Djoko has vowed to fight for every point according to Radio 5 Live this morning.
Rosalind
31-10-2016, 09:03
Djoko has vowed to fight for every point according to Radio 5 Live this morning.
I thought he'd gone off tennis.... never mind. I feel I'm going to be watching Novak as closely as Andy for the time being. :grrr::cauldron:
Josephine
31-10-2016, 09:45
He is rejuvenated. Did say he would get over it.
That's what he says - the proof will be in the playing!
angiebabez
31-10-2016, 14:06
*sigh*
It would be really helpful if you'd read the thread before posting supposition.
Your speculation was answered about 6hours ago.
"shes" French and already in Paris so snagged an early chat with Noley.
I like what she tweets; a good journalist who is usually on the ball with information.
I know who she is from twitter! i still say shes obsessed with him.
He failed to progress in the doubles. Straight sets defeat:-)
themass15
31-10-2016, 16:51
Real test will come on Wednesday
Josephine
31-10-2016, 23:31
Article on Djoko and his guru, as mentioned on here at some point. All seems a tad weird.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-3891218/Novak-Djokovic-hopes-love-peace-return-imperious-best-world-No-1-turns-ex-journeyman-player-spiritual-guru-Pepe-Imaz.html
Hmm - interesting article, although 'peace and love' didn't seem to be much in evidence when Djoko was ripping his shirt and smashing his racquet in Singapore!
Josephine
01-11-2016, 06:23
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/37818285
Four-time champion Djokovic says he is rejuvenated after a slump in form.
"It makes me want to go on court and fight for every point because there is something to win at the end," he said.
So he has his motivation back.
WimbledonWestie
01-11-2016, 07:36
Article on Djoko and his guru, as mentioned on here at some point. All seems a tad weird.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-3891218/Novak-Djokovic-hopes-love-peace-return-imperious-best-world-No-1-turns-ex-journeyman-player-spiritual-guru-Pepe-Imaz.html
Very weird!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/37818285
Four-time champion Djokovic says he is rejuvenated after a slump in form.
"It makes me want to go on court and fight for every point because there is something to win at the end," he said.
So he has his motivation back.
Is Djokovic trying to convince us or himself, I wonder? We'll see on Wednesday.
Josephine
01-11-2016, 14:01
Well he's changed what he is saying so that is a start.
Don't think he is going to roll over and give up No 1 easily. Or if he does it will initally be for a week... Until next year when Andy can get on top.
RosieBear
01-11-2016, 14:36
Of course Novak is going to (unsuccessfully) fight tooth and nail to keep the number 1. That's only natural and I can't think why anyone would believe anything he said to contrary. Just mind games - but I have no problem with that and don't understand why some people seem to get almost offended by them. Tennis is a three pronged sport - the physical aspect, the technical aspect and the mental aspect. Players train in the gym to physically out last their opponents in matches. Players practices their technique to better their opponents' variation in matches. Players see psychologists *and play mind games* off court in order to get the mental edge in matches. They *all* do it - whether it's Fed's little barbs, Rafa with his stock 'if I'm to have any chance at all" (even when facing the world 347), for his part Andy is superb at deflection. It's all perfectly legitimate and *extremely* tame, compared to say the sledging in cricket or the trash talk in boxing.
Of course Novak is going to (unsuccessfully) fight tooth and nail to keep the number 1. That's only natural and I can't think why anyone would believe anything he said to contrary. Just mind games - but I have no problem with that and don't understand why some people seem to get almost offended by them. Tennis is a three pronged sport - the physical aspect, the technical aspect and the mental aspect. Players train in the gym to physically out last their opponents in matches. Players practices their technique to better their opponents' variation in matches. Players see psychologists *and play mind games* off court in order to get the mental edge in matches. They *all* do it - whether it's Fed's little barbs, Rafa with his stock 'if I'm to have any chance at all" (even when facing the world 347), for his part Andy is superb at deflection. It's all perfectly legitimate and *extremely* tame, compared to say the sledging in cricket or the trash talk in boxing. Absolutely RB, I couldn't agree more! Of course they will all do everything they can within the rules to win and as long as it is within the rules, that's fine.
Josephine
02-11-2016, 17:36
Djoko not going anywhere in a hurry. Into next round.
I didn't see it but heard the commies saying that Djoko played well in the first set - not so well in the second and Muller made a lot of mistakes. How did people who watched the match feel?
exislander
02-11-2016, 18:14
From what I saw I would agree that Muller made a lot of mistakes and I thought Djokovic still below his best.
supergran
02-11-2016, 19:23
Muller had chances but sadly didn't take them Didn't watch every game as I was cooking!
themass15
02-11-2016, 19:42
I am sure he will be quite satisfied for a first run out.
Regarding mind games.......does anyone else think that despite the seeming deflection about the #1 spot (after all he's only saying it might not be possible THIS year) there's a hint of "I'm coming to get you " about the mere fact that Andy is no longer making a secret of his desire for the #1 ranking? For a long time he denied that was his goal whilst he was hunting his first slam.
Regarding mind games.......does anyone else think that despite the seeming deflection about the #1 spot (after all he's only saying it might not be possible THIS year) there's a hint of "I'm coming to get you " about the mere fact that Andy is no longer making a secret of his desire for the #1 ranking? For a long time he denied that was his goal whilst he was hunting his first slam.
his post match interview the other night was very telling IMO, he basically said he didt watch noles match as he didn't want to waste nervous energy, which shows he has some thing to gain directly from the results of noles match
banskogirl
04-11-2016, 15:23
Regarding mind games.......does anyone else think that despite the seeming deflection about the #1 spot (after all he's only saying it might not be possible THIS year) there's a hint of "I'm coming to get you " about the mere fact that Andy is no longer making a secret of his desire for the #1 ranking? For a long time he denied that was his goal whilst he was hunting his first slam.
Yes I agree :) and I also think that's what's making us even more excited, as if Andy is giving us the go ahead this time!
RosieBear
04-11-2016, 15:46
Regarding mind games.......does anyone else think that despite the seeming deflection about the #1 spot (after all he's only saying it might not be possible THIS year) there's a hint of "I'm coming to get you " about the mere fact that Andy is no longer making a secret of his desire for the #1 ranking? For a long time he denied that was his goal whilst he was hunting his first slam.
Yes I agree :) and I also think that's what's making us even more excited, as if Andy is giving us the go ahead this time!
I definitely agree too, Mrs P. Andy has been much more overtly in Novak's face in the second half of the year, and I feel it started when he reunited with Lendl. Back in the summer Lendl explicitly stated that Andy was 'going to spoil Novak's party'. That was in relation to winning Wimbo and Novak hope to become the only player to hold all 4 majors, but the premise is the same - get in Novak's face. I believe Ivan brings out the toughest side of Andy on court and off, and personally I love it.
Nice words from Novak for Andy https://www.facebook.com/djokovic.official/posts/1284315761621272 also glad to see him confining he will be at the WTF. Now just crossing my fingers for milos
Oh the irony after finaly being able to dry my eyes after the last match of 2016
when Our hero gave the joker a lesson in tennis after getting to the final in much
worse physical shape.
My other half sent me out for sustenance, now for some reason I grabbed my van
keys, not the car. My van being the only vehicle that has my phone connected to
it via blue tooth so I get in, start her up and it starts playing my music with no
input from me.
The track is from one of my favourite albums: Steve Mcqueen by Prefab sprout.
And the words hit me in a way like never before especially the first and last bits.
Below is a link to the track enjoy...........
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DRggfF-Nlo
And here's the lyrics:
http://www.metrolyrics.com/moving-the-river-lyrics-prefab-sprout.html
Sallydaisy
22-11-2016, 09:55
From twitter ...
Franklin Stoker @StokerSports (https://twitter.com/StokerSports) 9h9 hours ago (https://twitter.com/StokerSports/status/800832686705164288)
Boris Becker @cnnsport (https://twitter.com/cnnsport)
on Novak Djokovic. Interesting stuff. They hold talks about their future this week.
Sallydaisy
22-11-2016, 10:03
cnn interview with Becker
CNN Sport @cnnsport (https://twitter.com/cnnsport) 3m3 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/cnnsport/status/801002315524100096)
"We were disappointed; we were frustrated; we didn’t sleep much”
@TheBorisBecker (https://twitter.com/TheBorisBecker) talks about a challenging six months as @DjokerNole (https://twitter.com/DjokerNole)'s coach
lovetennis
22-11-2016, 20:13
I can't see Boris being around next year. Whatever worked for them as a team before isn't working now. I can't see Boris holding much truck with Djokovic's "life coach" (they call him that on David Law's tennis podcast). It's noticeable that they sat at opposite ends of the box. I must say the life coach looked quite creepy to me when I saw him on TV. I suspect Djokovic will have to choose between the guru or Boris, which way will he want to go?
These things run their course though. Djoko and Boris must have been together for more than two years now - perhaps there just isn't anything more that Djoko can learn from Boris. I will be amazed if he's still in the team next year and maybe he won't want to be anyway - particularly if the 'guru' becomes a permanent fixture.
Rosalind
25-11-2016, 23:32
The life coach guru is bizarre. I was sitting at the back of the court (Andy's end) for the final The Guru was illuminated like no-one else.... He was brighter than the mobile phone flashes. I think it will be great if he becomes a permanent fixture because I can't see how he can have much of a positive impact. :rolling:
WimbledonWestie
26-11-2016, 00:07
He was sitting down by the celebs opposite player boxes during the doubles prior to Novaks match on Saturday night which I found odd. He looks odd to me, gave me the creeps. No rational reason for this, just gut instinct.
lovetennis
26-11-2016, 09:21
I think it was his fixed smile and the look that he was trying to psychically connect with Novak during the match that creeped me out. Then shots of Novak meditatng at changeovers as if to connect with the guru. It could have been the TV editing that gave this impression but Andy seemed to think it was a bit weird too. There was a lovely shot of him glancing over at Novak during a changeover in the second set, the look seemed to say "what on earth are you doing?"
themass15
26-11-2016, 09:28
I have seen him around a lot recently; he does stand out, particularly because he is so tanned.
I read somewhere that he sends him messages through the medium of bowls of rice. I stopped reading at that point. A lot of these gurus tend to turn out to be scam artists.
To be fair to Jose "Pepe" Imaz, he was a professional tennis player with a career high of 146 and runs a tennis academy in Spain where his coaching methods seem to be less than traditional with the main focus on the player's well being.
I think it was his fixed smile and the look that he was trying to psychically connect with Novak during the match that creeped me out. Then shots of Novak meditatng at changeovers as if to connect with the guru. It could have been the TV editing that gave this impression but Andy seemed to think it was a bit weird too. There was a lovely shot of him glancing over at Novak during a changeover in the second set, the look seemed to say "what on earth are you doing?"
I thought that look had more of a "You're not going to win this match...I am!!" air about it!
lovetennis
26-11-2016, 14:07
I read somewhere that he sends him messages through the medium of bowls of rice. I stopped reading at that point. A lot of these gurus tend to turn out to be scam artists.
So not just creepy, also very strange :barmy:
Rosalind
26-11-2016, 15:59
I think it was his fixed smile and the look that he was trying to psychically connect with Novak during the match that creeped me out. Then shots of Novak meditatng at changeovers as if to connect with the guru. It could have been the TV editing that gave this impression but Andy seemed to think it was a bit weird too. There was a lovely shot of him glancing over at Novak during a changeover in the second set, the look seemed to say "what on earth are you doing?"
He must have clashed with my messages. I was psychically trying to connect with Novak too. Miss! Miss! Double-fault! :cauldron:
Yes, I saw Andy look over as he did all his stuff, drinks, bananas etc. It was like the good boy in the class looking at the weird one! :dance:
I have no idea what to make of this all. I think there are things we don't understand in the universe, but whatever is going on with Novak's latest endeavour certainly didn't work for him in the last match.We are all allowed to make mistakes, it's just that these poor athletes have them displayed to millions. There are things that I don't like that Nole's done (the gamesmanship one AO for example), but if he feels he needs spiritual guidance then I have no issue with it. It's not like he hasn't got money to burn.
I have no idea what to make of this all. I think there are things we don't understand in the universe, but whatever is going on with Novak's latest endeavour certainly didn't work for him in the last match.We are all allowed to make mistakes, it's just that these poor athletes have them displayed to millions. There are things that I don't like that Nole's done (the gamesmanship one AO for example), but if he feels he needs spiritual guidance then I have no issue with it. It's not like he hasn't got money to burn.
nice to hear a nice reasonable attitude to others believes outwith the considered norm:peace:
I thought that look had more of a "You're not going to win this match...I am!!" air about it!
+1
Lynne also agrees so that's +2
I think we need a 'like' button and a thanks button. alot of us are using the thanks button as if it was the 'like' button on Facebook anyway.
I think we need a 'like' button and a thanks button. alot of us are using the thanks button as if it was the 'like' button on Facebook anyway.
Like or +1 or agreed or what ever.
I thought that too.
;)
Watching Novak practice before the raonic match, there were obvious tensions in the camp. Becker and Vajda talking to each other and the life coach just sitting on the bench. It wasn't the chatty atmosphere that I've seen previously in practices. Some said the same of murray's team before danni left. So I suspect something has got to change. For myself I hope it is the life coach because it would be sad to see Vajda pushed out, he is a great coach and a nice guy. He's always friendly and chatty to the fans. As for the medititation, it seemed more like calming. Finding a way to focus. Others players do it, milos was during the WTFs, other players put a towel over their faces. It's not weird or unusual. Murray probably realised itvgir what it was, a sign djoko was struggling to focus and dealing with nerves and anxiety. I absolutely hate driving. After some horrendous crashes involving people I knew and some scary ones as a passenger I was terrified. I developed a pattern before every lesson to help myself manage those nerves and to make sure I could focus. I would have a cranberry tea and banana. Then sit there with my eyes closed telling myself it would be ok. The car wasn't scary, I'd be in control, I'd be fine. Sometimes when I got in the car, after putting my seat belt on and moving my chair and mirrors I'd do it again. I don't think it's odd and it worked. Eventually I got as able to hold my fear and nerves and focus without it.
I hope this is the case for Novak and milos. It's sad for great players and anyone for that matter to be plagued by doubt and anxiety. If Novak thinks thevlife coach is helping then that's up to him. I wouldn't judge him for it. Previously he had religion in those moments, I'm not religious but I didn't judge him for that either. I do think if he is having a crisis of faith then that is also extremely sad for him. It can bring all kinds of other questions and doubts. No one really knew about my little ways to calm myself before drivingbother than KevD, in this case we only know of djoko's because he lives his life in the spotlight.
On a different note, I thought what he said of Murray after the match was lovely, and of Kim. You could see in their embrace at the net that whatever we or the media make of their rivalry, there is a warmth there. Murray had some nice things to say about djoko too.
Rosalind
30-11-2016, 11:42
Watching Novak practice before the raonic match, there were obvious tensions in the camp. Becker and Vajda talking to each other and the life coach just sitting on the bench. It wasn't the chatty atmosphere that I've seen previously in practices. Some said the same of murray's team before danni left. So I suspect something has got to change. For myself I hope it is the life coach because it would be sad to see Vajda pushed out, he is a great coach and a nice guy. He's always friendly and chatty to the fans. As for the medititation, it seemed more like calming. Finding a way to focus. Others players do it, milos was during the WTFs, other players put a towel over their faces. It's not weird or unusual. Murray probably realised itvgir what it was, a sign djoko was struggling to focus and dealing with nerves and anxiety. I absolutely hate driving. After some horrendous crashes involving people I knew and some scary ones as a passenger I was terrified. I developed a pattern before every lesson to help myself manage those nerves and to make sure I could focus. I would have a cranberry tea and banana. Then sit there with my eyes closed telling myself it would be ok. The car wasn't scary, I'd be in control, I'd be fine. Sometimes when I got in the car, after putting my seat belt on and moving my chair and mirrors I'd do it again. I don't think it's odd and it worked. Eventually I got as able to hold my fear and nerves and focus without it.
I hope this is the case for Novak and milos. It's sad for great players and anyone for that matter to be plagued by doubt and anxiety. If Novak thinks thevlife coach is helping then that's up to him. I wouldn't judge him for it. Previously he had religion in those moments, I'm not religious but I didn't judge him for that either. I do think if he is having a crisis of faith then that is also extremely sad for him. It can bring all kinds of other questions and doubts. No one really knew about my little ways to calm myself before drivingbother than KevD, in this case we only know of djoko's because he lives his life in the spotlight.
On a different note, I thought what he said of Murray after the match was lovely, and of Kim. You could see in their embrace at the net that whatever we or the media make of their rivalry, there is a warmth there. Murray had some nice things to say about djoko too.
these are some kind words JerryD.
I do think Novak has a good way at the net after matches and I wouldn't want anyone to think I was anti meditation in itself from my jokey comments above. (I just found the life coach a bit odd in his fluorescent white and odd smile.)
On another note: did you see yourselves on camera as the players came on court before the last game of the final? I could see you all very clearly on the bbc recording so I hope you have it too.
No I didn't think you were against it. There has just been a lot of mockery about his behaviours all over the Internet and some senationalising from the media that makes it into evidence of a mental breakdown. The life coach was acting odd, evidently annabelle felt so as when he started to talk to her during the doubles she didn't really respond. Becker's limp seems much worse this year. If their relationship does end I hope he takes the time to recover rather than jumping straight into another gig.
I didn't. I was probably angrily messaging jimmyG about the guy who told me to stop shouting. lol And Liv spent some time hiding behind her flag lol
banskogirl
30-11-2016, 19:37
To be fair to Jose "Pepe" Imaz, he was a professional tennis player with a career high of 146 and runs a tennis academy in Spain where his coaching methods seem to be less than traditional with the main focus on the player's well being.
Whatever our views on the man I must say I would think a tennis coach would be more use with main focus on the tennis, there are doctors out there for their well being :)
and I wouldn't be saying that if it looked like it was working!
No I didn't think you were against it. There has just been a lot of mockery about his behaviours all over the Internet and some senationalising from the media that makes it into evidence of a mental breakdown. The life coach was acting odd, evidently annabelle felt so as when he started to talk to her during the doubles she didn't really respond. Becker's limp seems much worse this year. If their relationship does end I hope he takes the time to recover rather than jumping straight into a mother gig.
I didn't. I was probably angrily messaging jimmyG about the guy who told me to stop shouting. lol And Liv spent some time hiding behind her flag lol
Appropriate Freudian slip
Sorry folks that's what using the forum on your phone will get you.
themass15
01-12-2016, 10:39
I think if Becker stops coaching Novak he will take quite a lot of time out. Perhaps it will be his one and only coaching role. We shall.
According to Bild, Boris has given Djoko an ultimatum - 'Either the guru OR me'.
I do hope he chooses the Guru. The less exposure to Boris the better, and I feel the Guru has done wonders for Djokovic's game. He has made it a pleasure to watch............
I do hope he chooses the Guru. The less exposure to Boris the better, and I feel the Guru has done wonders for Djokovic's game. He has made it a pleasure to watch............
:laugh:
WimbledonWestie
03-12-2016, 20:01
Lol!
lovetennis
03-12-2016, 21:17
According to Bild, Boris has given Djoko an ultimatum - 'Either the guru OR me'.
I can imagine Boris taking that attitude. He is a guy with a big ego so I doubt he will want to play second fiddle to anyone. I don't have any issue with Djok or anyone else for that matter doing whatever works for them on a mental or spiritual level, but the crucial words are "whatever works". It doesn't look like Djok's current regime works for his performance on the court. It may be that it works in his personal life and he is prioritising that over his professional life (and fair enough if that's the case) but he was clearly frustrated with his playing in the second half of the year. Something is going to have to give next year and I will be very curious to see what that will be
RosieBear
03-12-2016, 23:34
Choose the guru, Nole. He'll see you right, nice to have a fresh outlook from alternative source. Meanwhile Andy will stick with Ivan;)
The Boris/Djoko partnership has probably run its course anyway.
sir coolerking
05-12-2016, 12:23
If the rumours were true, it sounded like Boris was offering life advice too.......and that can't be good.
Go with the Guru Novak!!
roytennisfan
06-12-2016, 20:06
Split with Becker confirmed
Stuart Fraser @stu_fraser 1m1 minute ago
BREAKING: Novak Djokovic splits with coach Boris Becker after three years.
The Guru wins.......... It must be Christmas:-)
JAMES4578
06-12-2016, 20:22
Can't say I'm too surprised,Becker may go back to commentating-depends whether that appeals to you more or not :) Must say I find some of the "Guru's methods a bit weird (though can't be sure all reporting accurate)
Does this mean a return to commentating for Bobo? :crying:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CzBOGWkXUAIb_80.jpg
"I will make all future decisions" unless told otherwise. ;)
Well. this doesn't surprise me at all but it is interesting ............... I can't wait to see how it all unfolds.
roytennisfan
06-12-2016, 20:55
Russell Fuller @russellcfuller 8m8 minutes ago
Marian Vajda has remained, and surely will remain, hugely influential. Djokovic says he's now searching for "a good schedule & new goals."
As long as he doesn't try to poach Lendl........
themass15
06-12-2016, 21:10
Lendl wouldn't go
angiebabez
06-12-2016, 21:18
As long as he doesn't try to poach Lendl........
No chance!! Team Murray are tight.
Some (probably scurrilous) suggestion that the split was prompted by Mrs Djokovic not feeling that Boris was the best of influences in certain areas...................
angiebabez
06-12-2016, 21:55
Some (probably scurrilous) suggestion that the split was prompted by Mrs Djokovic not feeling that Boris was the best of influences in certain areas...................
You can lead a horse to water an all that
As long as he doesn't try to poach Lendl........
Just not going to happen.
Becker speaks exclusively to Sky. (http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/tennis/10686099/becker-on-djokovic-split) "He didn't spend enough time on the practice court in the last six months" Boris throwing Novak under the bus. I don't think it would take much to get more gossip out of him.
Becker speaks exclusively to Sky. (http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/tennis/10686099/becker-on-djokovic-split) "He didn't spend enough time on the practice court in the last six months" Boris throwing Novak under the bus. I don't think it would take much to get more gossip out of him.
Interesting all the same. He also said that Andy taking his no 1 spot will hurt him.
Josephine
07-12-2016, 00:28
Think Boris was already being pretty indiscreet in the interviews he did - maybe made Djoko decide to speed up the bullet.
Wonder if he will ever spill any really interesting beans....
Rosalind
07-12-2016, 08:24
Think Boris was already being pretty indiscreet in the interviews he did - maybe made Djoko decide to speed up the bullet.
Wonder if he will ever spill any really interesting beans....
Pity that big glitzy book came out last year...
I heard about the split on the 10.30pm news on radio five live. Afterwards. Phil Williams claimed he was shocked by the announcement and had to talk to David Law after 11pm about it. David said Novak and Boris had signed a contract for three years and on New Year's Eve, it would be three years. David claimed nobody had seen it coming and reckoned Novak hadn't been listening to Boris since he'd won the French Open. David also claimed that Federer played his best tennis when he was without a coach.
Josephine
07-12-2016, 09:47
Well we all saw it coming!!!
Becker joining Eurosport Germany for Oz Open. He just can't bear to not be able to spout his opinions everywhere!
sir coolerking
07-12-2016, 11:06
Becker speaks exclusively to Sky. (http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/tennis/10686099/becker-on-djokovic-split) "He didn't spend enough time on the practice court in the last six months" Boris throwing Novak under the bus. I don't think it would take much to get more gossip out of him.
Probably about as much as it took to lure him into a broom cupboard!!
themass15
07-12-2016, 12:28
Well we all saw it coming!!!
Becker joining Eurosport Germany for Oz Open. He just can't bear to not be able to spout his opinions everywhere!
At least they won't be heard in the UK.
Djokovic will not be without a coach as there is still Vaifda and the guru
would be nice if this help shift the attention away from all this super coach guff, and focussed the attention back on the actual players
dewster99
07-12-2016, 15:01
Some (probably scurrilous) suggestion that the split was prompted by Mrs Djokovic not feeling that Boris was the best of influences in certain areas...................
HA! Bants
You can lead a horse to water an all that
Or you can lead an idiot to the fountain of knowledge but you can't make him think.
Well we all saw it coming!!!
Becker joining Eurosport Germany for Oz Open. He just can't bear to not be able to spout his opinions everywhere!
Well I was offered by party poker to take on Boris heads to head for $20'000 last month so he's already been
back lining his pockets else where.
david1610
10-12-2016, 13:52
I think if Becker stops coaching Novak he will take quite a lot of time out. Perhaps it will be his one and only coaching role.
I do not think the Beckers and Llendls want to make up the numbers. Only worth coaching somebody with at least a very good chance of getting a slam.
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