After coaching Andre Agassi to a Roland Garros title, ESPN tennis analyst Brad Gilbert believes his former charge has the tennis wisdom to do the same for defending champion Novak Djokovic.
Speaking on an ESPN conference call ahead of Roland Garros, the former No. 4 in the Emirates ATP Rankings shared his thoughts on the partnership. Although some have questioned how successful the new coaching arrangement will be, Gilbert said the similarities in their playing styles could spark a successful relationship.
“Andre played his best tennis from 29 on. Djokovic just turned 30. Today's 30 is like 25 used to be,” said Gilbert. “A lot of times when I'm watching Djokovic, when he's playing at his best, nobody plays closer to the style that Andre played. He hits big, but with safe margins in the court. He doesn't hit a lot of winners, but hits very few unforced errors when he’s playing his best tennis.
“I think it's really exciting that Andre is going to coach for the first time. A lot of players have approached him before. He brings an incredible amount of knowledge, wisdom and passion. It’s just getting to know each other at the start, but I think the potential is there for an exciting partnership.”
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Gilbert also discussed the resurgence of Rafael Nadal, who remains an on-paper favourite to win his 10th title at Roland Garros. Although the Spaniard suffered his first loss on clay this year to Dominic Thiem at the Internazionali BNL d'Italia in Rome, Gilbert doesn’t think the loss will hold much weight heading into Paris.
“He's serving a lot better this year. He doesn't have a massive serve, but his serve really sets up his game. I think his forehand looks as good as it has in the past two or three years,” he said. “He's hitting a lot more aggressively and with more confidence. Those are two aspects of his game that really can lift him. He's playing at an elite level again.”
Having also coached World No. 1 Andy Murray for 16 months from July 2006 to November 2007, Gilbert also believes last year’s Roland Garros finalist can’t be counted out. Although Murray is experiencing a dip in form on clay compared to his stellar 2016, Gilbert said the gritty play required to succeed in Paris is tailor made for Murray’s personality.
“He was dictating play a lot more last year on clay, especially with the forehand," said Gilbert. "Having that balance between offence and defence has been an issue. But he has plenty of time to turn it around. He loves the fight. He’s not about the show and the bling. He loves the guts and working hard.
“I do think the resurgence of Roger Federer and Rafa will only inspire Novak and Andy. For years, Djoker and Murray were chasing them. Now it's back to those guys chasing them again. I think this will inspire Andy to put a little fuel to the fire.”