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Annacone: Djokovic May Be Best Pure Defender Ever


It’s no secret that Novak Djokovic brings a tremendous level of punch from both wings. He possesses what many believe to be the most versatile and lethal backhand in men’s tennis, and his forehand is vastly underrated both as an offensive weapon and as a counterpunching tool. With quickness, flexibility and instinct, Djokovic covers the court as well or better as anybody in the game, particularly on the clay court.

More: Djokovic Survives Five-Setter with Murray to Reach Roland Garros Final

During Novak Djokovic’s five-set win over Andy Murray, Tennis Channel commentators Paul Annacone and Martina Navratilova wondered if there had ever been a player with an attack as balanced and as lethal as Novak Djokovic’s.

“The only other person in the men’s game with my recollection is Andre Agassi. [Djokovic] is just so sound on both sides—can punish you equally with both wings,” Annacone said. “I’ve never seen two players who more often looked like they were being fed out of a ball machine. Looks like they’re there and they’re ready for every shot.”

Picking up the debate, Navratilova added: “But I would give an edge to Djokovic on defense because he’s faster than Andre—he covers bigger parts of the court.”

Annacone concluded: “Novak is the best offensive defender I’ve ever seen, and maybe the best pure defender ever.”

The Serb will put those skills to the test against the offensive juggernaut known as Stan Wawrinka in Sunday’s French Open final. So far the Serb has had quite a bit of success against the Swiss No. 2. He owns a 17-3 lifetime edge against Wawrinka, but there last four meetings at Grand Slams have gone five sets.

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