Novak Djokovic weary of Lucas Pouille Australian Open clash because of Rafael Nadal
NOVAK DJOKOVIC has predicted Australian Open opponent Lucas Pouille can break into the top 10 of the ATP Tour.
Novak Djokovic will go up against Pouille in the Australian Open semi-finals on Friday morning, aiming to join Rafael Nadal in the final.
The Serb is yet to face his opponent in a competitive outing but, on the eve of their showdown, has tipped Pouille to continue his fine form.
“I always thought he’s a great quality player. What he has done this tournament is fantastic,” he said.
“He has won against some top players.
“He struggled a little bit with consistency in the last two years.
“But with the quality of the tennis that he possesses, he deserves to be at the top 15, maybe top 10 of the world.
“He’s got that quality and potential no question about it.”
Djokovic is relishing his Australian Open showdown with Pouille.
And he believes that the Frenchman’s US Open win over Rafael Nadal in 2016 will set him in good stead.
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“I’m looking forward to a battle,” Djokovic added.
“Obviously it’s his first semi-finals at a Slam, but he has won against Nadal in New York some years ago, and he’s made advances at the big tournaments.
“It’s funny that we’re going to play for the first time against each other.
“We’ve practiced many times. We’ve known each a long time.
“He’s not afraid to play his best on the biggest stage.
“So I expect him to come out, be confident as he always is. I am looking forward to it.”
Djokovic, should he reign supreme, would be in his third Grand Slam final on the spin.
The Serb won both Wimbledon and the French Open last year after previously being sidelined through injury.