Novak Djokovic speaks out on chasing Roger Federer’s Grand Slam record :-: Metro
METRO
Novak Djokovic insists he’s not motivated by chasing Roger Federer’s total of 19 Grand Slams but hinted he’s far from done in adding to his own haul of 12 majors.
Nadal opens world No. 1 door to Federer with late schedule change
The Serb ended his 2017 early due to an elbow injury, having struggled for form and fitness throughout the year.
With the 30-year-old and Andy Murray suffering, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal both added two more Grand Slams to their collection, moving their totals to 19 and 16 respectively.
After winning the French Open to hold all four Grand Slams at once in 2016, Djokovic looked set to go on to challenge Federer at the top of the all-time leaderboard but his chances appear slimmer now.
Most Grand Slam titles
19 – Federer
16 – Nadal
14 – Sampras
12 – Djokovic
12 – Emerson
But while Djokovic is not focused on catching the legendary Swiss’ haul, he is ready to keep challenging himself to improve.
‘I have motivations, but not to chase anyone, but to prove myself that I can do even more better,’ he told Novosti when asked if he was hunting down Federer’s record.
‘My parents often told me that I have to believe in myself and never stop working and fighting.
‘No matter how hard or whatever the circumstances are. You will only fail when you stop trying.’
Djokovic also discussed his plans to add another coach to his team, to offer support to Andre Agassi.
While the American will be head coach, the Serb is on the lookout for a day-to-day coach and he revealed he’s looking at several former ATP stars.
More: Tennis
‘There are several names I’m thinking about,’ he added. ‘I can’t reveal who it is, because there are many factors that need to be matched. But I can tell you what profile would best suit me.
‘It’s a former player who had an enviable career and who managed to get the most from him at all times.
‘Who was not No. 1, but was smart enough, wise and persistent to always give 100%. By the way, it’s someone whose life values are in line with mine.’
MORE: Novak Djokovic sets timeline for return to the top after Roger Federer & Rafael Nadal inspiration
