Novak Djokovic proposed an interesting change in Grand Slams after beating Alexei Popyrin 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(3), in his third-round match of the ongoing Wimbledon 2024 at the Centre Court on Saturday.
Djokovic, 37, is eyeing his first Slam of the year as he withdrew from Roland Garros following an injury and suffered a semi-final defeat at the Australian Open this year.
The Serb was asked in a press conference after the clash for his thoughts about playing three sets in Grand Slams instead of five.
“I think they should stay best-of-five. The only thing that I'm maybe thinking it could be good to consider is the opening rounds that could go best-of-three,” Djokovic explained.
“Then you move into the hybrid of best-of-fives from the fourth rounds or quarters. That's just me, my thinking.”
While giving the answer, Djokovic talked about his 2019 Wimbledon final against Roger Federer, which is considered one of the best finals of all time, where he clinched the title after winning the fifth set 13-12 following a tiebreak in the decider.
“The one that I can highlight was one of the most exciting matches I've ever played in my life, the five-setter against Federer here in the finals of Wimbledon 2019,” the 24-time Grand Slam champion explained.
“So it was an incredible match with some match points saved. If that match was best-of-three - yes, I was two sets to one up - I think it would be quite different because he was the better player.”
Djokovic also talked about his next opponent Holger Rune’s previous match where he was two sets down yet went on to win the match.
“Holger Rune was two sets to love down [against Quentin Halys on Saturday]. Still he's not out, he can still win. I think if you're physically fitter than your opponent or have more experience than your opponent in best-of-five, it still gives you a sense of confidence and tranquillity, even though you're two sets to love down,” the 37-year-old said.
“Throughout my career, I've had quite a few matches where I was coming back from two sets to love or two sets to one down. Winning record mostly, positive score in a fifth setter.
“I enjoyed those throughout my career. I think they're an important aspect of the history and of the future. I would support it, particularly in the latter stages of the Grand Slam.”
