Novak Djokovic: Why the Djoker Is the Best Tennis Player Ever

Novak Djokovic could arguably be the greatest tennis player to ever live if he can keep up his pace from the 2011 season.

Even if you disagree with that statement, there is no denying what the “Djoker” has accomplished since turning pro in 2003 has been nothing short of incredible.

The 24-year-old Serbian has captured four Grand Slam singles titles and is the youngest player to ever have appeared in the semifinals of all four major tour events.

He had an epic year in 2011, winning the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the US Open while making the semis in the French Open.

The young man finally reached No. 1 in July of that year and has not relinquished the spot.

“At least in my lifetime, the best ever," tennis legend Pete Sampras said. He also labeled it "one of the best achievements in all of sports."

Djokovic knocked out the other current greats, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, in numerous finals on multiple types of surfaces.

Now, he’s out to prove his 70-6 record last year was not a fluke. He easily defeated Paolo Lorenzi in straight sets to advance to the second round of the 2012 Australian Open and is looking to defend his title.

Djoker was awarded the No. 1 seed and will be facing 24-year-old Colombian Santiago Giraldo in the second round on his journey back to the finals.

The No. 51-ranked player should provide little-to-no opposition, and it would be surprising to see him win a set.

Djokovic talked about his success in Grand Slams.

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I think it was a learning process for me in the last couple of years. I just have more confidence that I'm playing on right now. I just believe that I can win, especially against the biggest rivals in the major events.

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He certainly believes that, we certainly believe it, and that puts him on the path to be one of the best ever after one of the finest seasons of all time.