Novak Djokovic’s comment, “It took me a little bit of time to get the rust off,” is a candid
‘It took me a little bit of time to get the rust off’: Novak Djokovic makes third round of Shanghai Masters
acknowledgment of the challenges he sometimes faces when returning to peak form after a break or a difficult match. As one of the greatest tennis players of all time, Djokovic has achieved incredible consistency over his career, but even he is susceptible to periods where he needs time to adjust or regain his rhythm.
This kind of statement might come after an injury layoff, a longer off-season, or even just a match where he wasn’t quite in his usual rhythm early on. For a player of Djokovic’s caliber, “rust” doesn’t last long—he’s known for his ability to adapt mid-match and elevate his game. His meticulous preparation and mental toughness usually allow him to quickly shake off any signs of sluggishness.
Djokovic’s transparency also highlights the human aspect of top athletes, reminding us that even the most accomplished players experience moments where they aren’t performing at 100%—but their ability to overcome those moments is what makes them great. Would you agree that this vulnerability adds another layer to Djokovic’s appeal as a champ ion?
Novak Djokovic’s comment, “It took me a little bit of time to get the rust off,” is a candid acknowledgment of the challenges he sometimes faces when returning to peak form after a break or a difficult match. As one of the greatest tennis players of all time, Djokovic has achieved incredible consistency over his career, but even he is susceptible to periods where he needs time to adjust or regain his rhythm.
This kind of statement might come after an injury layoff, a longer off-season, or even just a match where he wasn’t quite in his usual rhythm early on. For a player of Djokovic’s caliber, “rust” doesn’t last long—he’s known for his ability to adapt mid-match and elevate his game. His meticulous preparation and mental toughness usually allow him to quickly shake off any signs of sluggishness.
‘It took me a little bit of time to get the rust off’: Novak Djokovic makes third round of Shanghai Masters
Djokovic’s transparency also highlights the human aspect of top athletes, reminding us that even the most accomplished players experience moments where they aren’t performing at 100%—but their ability to overcome those moments is what makes them great. Would you agree that this vulnerability adds another layer to Djokovic’s appeal as a champion?