Novak Djokovic has new French Open ‘gasoline’ due to Nadal however faces two threats

Novak Djokovic has been informed that Rafael Nadal’s absence from the French Open may give him the enhance he must make historical past. John McEnroe believes Djokovic might be fuelled by the possibility to overhaul Nadal and make Grand Slam historical past. But the American tennis legend additionally believes there are two stars who may threaten the Serb’s hopes, naming Carlos Alcaraz and Holger Rune as title favourites.

The upcoming French Open is ready to be essentially the most open in years for the lads, with 14-time champion Nadal absent as a consequence of harm. Djokovic has additionally solid some doubts about his kind coming into Paris, as this season marks the primary since 2018 that he has but to elevate a title on the clay forward of Roland Garros.

While the world No 3 has not met his typical exceedingly-high requirements in the course of the clay swing – failing to get past the quarter-final stage of any occasion – McEnroe believes he has obtained the gasoline he must elevate the trophy in Paris. “It’s his quest to be the best ever and win the most Majors so right now it looks like he’s the only guy left who could break more records,” he informed Eurosport.

“He’s tied with Rafa so this is an opening. He’s had a tough year and a half in a lot of ways and he’s also done some incredible things. Novak, he’s always looking for some inspiration, some fuel, and he’s got some now and he’s got a great chance.”

But the seven-time Major champion has additionally warned Djokovic that there are two gamers who may destroy his probabilities of lifting a 3rd trophy at Roland Garros – particularly with Nadal’s absence leaving the “door more open for any player that wants to win this tournament”.

He continued: “It’s much more open, you have Novak who’s won it twice, and then it becomes much more wide open after that. So, I think from that standpoint, it’s exciting.” And he gave Djokovic a stark reminder that the Big Three period is coming to an finish, explaining how Alcaraz and Rune have been in a position to do one thing that Alexander Zverev’s technology couldn’t.

“We’re approaching obviously the end of an era. I mean, this has been going on for 15 years, if not longer, so it’s unbelievable, but everything at some point ends,” the retired professional stated. “Novak is 36 now and he seems to be incredible for the most part and his body still seems to be able to do what he wants, but at some point, you think in the near future, that’s going to change. It’s just a question of how long can you keep going, that’s why you’re seeing young guys, finally…”