Former American tennis player John McEnroe has made yet another controversial remark, this time comparing world No 4 Novak Djokovic to troubled golfer Tiger Woods due to his recent dip in form. McEnroe said that Djokovic seems to be distracted by “off-court issues with the family”, reported The Telegraph.
“I think this isn’t a physical thing, this is more a mental thing,” McEnroe was quoted as saying about Djokovic’s dip in form after completing a career Grand Slam last year.
Woods is divorced, has been arrested for driving under influence, and has also suffered problems with prescription medication. Djokovic is married to Jelena Djokovic. They have a son and are expecting a second child together, but there were reports in the media that they have been bickering.
“That’s going to throw you,” McEnroe added. “If you’re distracted you’re not the same player. The person that comes to mind immediately with Novak is not a tennis player, it’s actually a golfer: Tiger Woods. When he [Woods] had the issues with his wife and then he seemed to go completely off the rails and has never been even close to being the same player. So we’re starting to say: ‘Wait a minute, is this possible with him [Djokovic]?’”
McEnroe recently courted controversy when he said that he would place Serena Williams 700th on the men’s circuit.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!