Stakhovsky firmly believes that Djokovic will definitely secure his 25th Grand Slam title.

When Sergiy Stakhovsky’s name resurfaced in the public eye, the Ukrainian player who shocked the tennis world by defeating seven-time champion Federer in the second round of Wimbledon 2013 was no longer running on the tennis court. Now, dressed in military uniform with an assault rifle on his chest, he stands on the front lines defending his homeland as a member of Ukraine’s Alpha special forces unit.

Yet, even amid the chaos of war, Stakhovsky’s sharp insights into tennis remain as keen as ever. Regarding whether Djokovic can claim his 25th Grand Slam title, the former world No. 31 offered a clear-headed and insightful analysis.

Stakhovsky’s tennis career peaked in 2013 when he stunned the world by defeating seven-time champion Federer 3-1 in the second round of Wimbledon. At that moment, he became synonymous with giant-killing. Now, more than a decade later, he has transitioned from the tennis court to a very different battlefield.

“I have to say, Zverev has a better chance of winning a Grand Slam,” Stakhovsky said in a recent interview. “He reached the semifinals in all four majors this year, so I think he can win anywhere.”

These words come from a special forces soldier on the front lines, making them especially thought-provoking. Known for his frankness and independent thinking, Stakhovsky has never hesitated to give Djokovic the highest praise despite his competitive spirit on the court.

Stakhovsky stated bluntly: “Novak has plenty of chances to win another Grand Slam.”

Djokovic’s 2025 performance has indeed been impressive, reaching the semifinals in all four Grand Slams—a level of consistency almost unbelievable for a 37-year-old athlete. Stakhovsky specifically mentioned: “His outstanding record in Australia gives him every reason to plan his preparation and expect positive results.”

Djokovic has won the Australian Open ten times, making the tournament almost his backyard. This dominance gives him a unique psychological edge and technical adaptability, making him a favorite in any Grand Slam event.

Stakhovsky’s comparison of Djokovic and Zverev is no coincidence. As a representative of the new generation, Zverev is seen as a strong contender for Grand Slam titles, but his performances at critical moments have yet to match Djokovic’s stability and mental toughness.

This contrast highlights the professionalism of Stakhovsky’s analysis; he not only recognizes Djokovic’s technical skills but also understands the Serbian champion’s psychological advantage in crucial moments and his adaptability across different surfaces and pressures.

Stakhovsky’s commentary is valuable not only because of his professional background but also because of the environment he is currently in. Against the backdrop of war, his perspective goes beyond pure technical analysis, likely encompassing a profound understanding of perseverance, resilience, and performance under extreme pressure.

“I think he can win anywhere.” This statement, coming from a former professional athlete now fighting on the front line, seems to also imply a survival wisdom of finding opportunities amid adversity.

Stakhovsky’s life journey is striking—from the glory of defeating Federer at Wimbledon to now wearing military gear defending his homeland, his transformation reflects some heartbreaking realities of our times. Yet, even through this change, his love and insight for tennis continue to shine.

His analysis of Djokovic’s potential 25th Grand Slam is not only an acknowledgment of a great athlete but also reflects his deep understanding of the sport. While holding a rifle on the front line defending his country, his tennis wisdom still resonates on the other side of the world.

Between the tennis court and the battlefield, Stakhovsky’s life demonstrates two vastly different competitive arenas, both demanding extraordinary courage, strategic thinking, and unwavering determination. Perhaps it is these shared qualities that give him such a clear and accurate judgment on Djokovic’s challenge.

Whether Djokovic wins his 25th Grand Slam or not, Stakhovsky’s analysis stands as a unique insight from someone who has experienced two kinds of “battlefields.” And he himself, whether holding a racket or a rifle, will continue to show remarkable bravery and wisdom in his respective arena.(Source: Tennis Home Author: Mei)