Novak Djokovic may have missed out on his 100th career title at the Miami Open, but former world No 1 Andy Roddick believes the Serbian star has shown he can still win a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.
Djokovic lost to Jakub Mensik in the final, coming up short in two tight tie-breakers.
Despite the defeat, Roddick insists the 24-time Grand Slam champion sent a clear message to his rivals ahead of upcoming major tournaments.
With Djokovic set to turn 38 next month, Roddick remains convinced the Serbian legend has the quality to add to his record Grand Slam haul.
Novak Djokovic missed out on his 100th career title at the Miami Open
Reuters
Roddick highlighted Djokovic's impressive form in Miami, where he reached the final without dropping a set.
"What Novak is doing is just crazy. I didn't think we would see this much of him this year," Roddick said on his Served podcast.
The American was emphatic about Djokovic's performance despite the final loss.
"There's just not a world that anyone is saying Djokovic was disappointing because he didn't win that final. What? He's almost 38 years, didn't drop a set until the final and lost two breakers," he added.
Roddick was particularly impressed with how Djokovic performed on the Miami surface.
"If they played the match again tomorrow, I would bet on Novak on that surface."
Looking ahead to upcoming Grand Slams, Roddick expressed confidence in Djokovic's chances, particularly at Roland Garros.
"Is the product he is putting out there good enough to win a major? Yes, it is. Will it happen? I don't know," Roddick said.
He pointed to Djokovic's recent success on clay as evidence.
"You talked about Roland Garros, three out of five [sets]. This guy did win the Olympics there a few months ago."
Novak Djokovic is on the cusp of a 100th title and Andy Roddick believes he could get it
PARoddick suggested Andy Murray's addition to Djokovic's coaching team has provided fresh motivation.
"He seems happy playing right now. He seems motivated to play right now. He has someone different to report to. Maybe that's the benefit of the Murray situation."
Roddick believes Djokovic remains among the elite despite his advancing years.
"So long as he is in tennis, it's better to watch. Even a version of him, and I say this gently, where he is 'only' the third favourite in every Slam now," he remarked.
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PAThe American placed Djokovic firmly in the top three contenders for Wimbledon.
"He's going to be 38, but are you going to put him outside of the top three to win Wimbledon? No, he's your third favourite. Sinner, Alcaraz and Djokovic."
Djokovic has already entered the Monte Carlo Masters starting next week.
This marks his transition from hard courts to clay as he prepares for the French Open next month.
