Following his Wimbledon defeat to Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic bounced back with four consecutive victories, including the US Open, securing his eighth year-ending No.1 ranking. However, a recent loss to Italian lucky loser Luca Nardi at the BNP Paribas Open has left Djokovic in a “negative cycle,” admitting his game is not at its best.
Nardi, who idolizes Djokovic, described his win as a “miracle” and a turning point in his career. The 20-year-old’s victory marked the first time Djokovic lost to a lucky loser, highlighting his unexpected slump in form.
Acknowledging Nardi’s performance, Djokovic lamented his own subpar level of play, similar to his response to his defeat against Jannik Sinner in the Australian Open. This loss to Nardi further emphasizes Djokovic’s struggles against the rising talents of the younger generation.
With players like Andy Murray also facing challenges from younger opponents, the tennis world witnesses a shift in dynamics as the older guard contends with the pace and power of the new generation.
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