The World No.1 Novak Djokovic has got off to a good start at the ongoing Monte Carlo Masters. The Serbian defeated Italy’s young sensation, Jannik Sinner, in straight sets by 6-4, 6-2 in the second round of the competition. However, Djokovic was full of praise for the 19-year old youngster.
Djokovic stated that Sinner has already proven that he is the future of Tennis. The 17-time slam champion is impressed with Sinner’s dedication and professionalism and believes the youngster is more mature as compared to other players of his age.
Sinner has impressed Djokovic with his pure ball striking and the World No. 1 stated that the youngster has taken giant strides in the game. Meanwhile, Sinner had recently made it to the final of the Miami Open but lost to Hubert Hurkacz by 7-6, 6-4.
Sinner has shown the promise to go a long way in his career and he will aim to continue the good show.
“It was a very good encounter, I thought it was a great first match [back], a big challenge for me,” Djokovic added. “Jannik is in form, he played in the Miami final, he’s been playing well.
“I just kind of hung in there today and managed to find the right shots and the right game at the right time.
“[Sinner] is an all-round player, he hits the ball in the sweet spot more or less on any surface really. He’s got a lot of talent and he has proven that he is the future of our sport, actually already the present of our sport,” the Serb said, chuckling.
“Already making Masters finals, he’s making big strides in professional tennis.”
Djokovic will play in the third round against the winner of the second-round match between Dan Evans and Hubert Hurkacz.