Roger Federer’s former coach makes something clear about Novak Djokovic’s early exit from Monte-Carlo

The biggest shock of the Monte–Carlo Masters came when Novak Djokovic was knocked out in the opening round by Alejandro Tabilo. While many viewed it as a major upset, some, like Paul Annacone—former coach of Roger Federer and a former World No. 12—took a different stance, downplaying the significance of the defeat.

Much like Andy Roddick, who stated Djokovic’s loss “should be viewed as normal,” Annacone echoed a similar sentiment, attributing the outcome to Djokovic’s limited schedule rather than any decline in his abilities.

“Look, I think the hardest thing is, when you win as much as these all-time greats win, you tend to only make news when you lose,” Annacone explained on Tennis Channel. “And Novak now, because he’s not playing that much, he is losing what seems to be an inordinate amount of times”.

The former coach of Pete Sampras also highlighted that Djokovic’s main focus is preparation for Grand Slams, not smaller tournaments. “But guess what, the most important thing for players at this stage, in this level, is to periodize, ‘How am I gonna get ready for Roland Garros? How am I gonna get ready for Wimbledon?’” Annacone added.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia plays a backhand against Alejandro Tabilo of Chile during the Monte-Carlo Masters. (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Djokovic won’t panic over upsets

Annacone believes that surprising losses like this one will happen from time to time, but Djokovic’s mental fortitude and unparalleled skill set will ensure he stays on course.

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“He’s gonna have some of these losses, but because he knows how good he is, he’s not going to panic, his confidence isn’t going to crash, it’s about staying healthy and trying to peak at the right moment,” Annacone said. “So I’ve always believed that you never really want to bet against greats, particularly all-time greats in the biggest moments”.

Confidence in Djokovic’s Grand Slam prospects

While Annacone acknowledges that Djokovic might not dominate Grand Slams as he did in years past, he is confident the Serbian superstar will remain a strong contender at every Major.

“He’s not gonna probably win three and four majors over a couple year span all the time now, but he’s not going to miss any major,” Annacone remarked. “But when the guy wants to play, I’m not betting against him in a big tournament yet”.