A Grand Slump

- Peter Bodo

Since his landmark win, Djokovic has come up short at every major. He has lost to Sam Querrey (third round, Wimbledon), Stan Wawrinka (final, US Open) and—after surrendering the No. 1 ranking to Andy Murray—to ATP No. 117 Denis Istomin (second round, Australian Open). The most recent loss may have cut deepest, although you might not have known that from the equanimous way Djokovic described it to reporters immediately afterward. Denying any lack of intensity on his part, he claimed, “It’s one of these days when you don’t feel that great on the court, don’t have much rhythm, and the player you’re playing against is feeling the ball very well. So, you know, that’s sport.”

Nothing to see here folks; just move along.