Martin Reaches Final Four And Backs Djokovic For 2011 Success

Added on: December 3, 2010

Novak Djokovic’s former advisor Todd Martin believes that the sky is the limit for the Serbian if he can improve the mental side to his game, writes Sean Molyneux.

The American, who coached the World No.3 from August 2009 until April this year, was speaking after his quarterfinal victory over Cedric Pioline at the AEGON Masters Tennis in London on Friday.

“The world can be Novak’s oyster, his physical talent is spectacular and he’s got way more fight in him then most people give him credit for,” said Martin.

“The biggest challenge is for him to organise his mind to the point where he can be at peace with any result, any shot, any point, any game, any set, any match. And as he improves that, I think it will dictate his success.”

Martin also hinted at some of the key issues the pair worked on during their brief period together, including Djokovic’s tactical approach during matches.

He said: “Right now when he’s nervous he gets a little cautious. He’s an incredible defender but he’s a much better player when he defends because he has to, as opposed to defending when he chooses. So if he makes a concerted effort to work away from those habits, 2011 should be a good year.”

Martin is one of a host of tennis legends competing at the AEGON Masters this week as part of the Tour’s season-ending event at the Royal Albert Hall.

However, his victory came in unfortunate circumstances, as his opponent Cedric Pioline was forced to retire leading 6-3, 1-2 in the second set of their match because of a calf injury.

“The young guys lie through their teeth when they say they don’t want to win that way, they want to win in any way they can!” joked Martin.

“At this stage in our lives were out here to have fun and enjoy ourselves, so I’m excited to have another opportunity to play, it’s a really neat place to be.”

Martin will face either Tim Henman or Thomas Enqvist in the semi-finals, with the pair competing in the day’s evening session.

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