From Laughter to Legend: How He Silenced Critics to Become the Greatest Grand Slam Champion in Tennis History!”

There are very few players in the history of tennis that can even begin to compare legacies with Djokovic.

Serbia-Montenegro’s Novak Djokovic competes against Argentina’s Guillermo Coria in the second round of the 2005 French Open tennis tournament at Roland Garros. Coria was leading 4-6, 6-2, 3-2 when Djokovic pulled out. (Photo by Eddy LEMAISTRE/Corbis via Getty Images)

The Serbian star has won almost everything there is to win on the ATP Tour during his 21 year professional career.

In 2025, Djokovic faces the tough challenge of competing with players much younger than him, many of which are decades his junior.

At the Australian Open, Djokovic beat Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling four-set encounter, stunning the 21-year-old Spanish star.

A hamstring tear prevented the Serb from going any further in Melbourne, as he retired injured during his semi-final match with Alexander Zverev.

It was a tough result, but not one that affected his reputation, as most fans and pundits agree Djokovic belongs in the G.O.A.T (Greatest Of All Time) conversation.

The Serb had to earn his respect on the ATP Tour, however, with many dismissing him during his earlier years.

Tennis pundits laughed at Novak Djokovic during the French Open 20 years ago

In 2005, Djokovic qualified for the French Open, as he looked to secure a first career Grand Slam main draw win in round one.

Dropping just three games in a 6-0, 6-0, 6-3 win, Djokovic breezed past America’s Robby Ginepri to do just that, as he booked his spot in the second round.

It was there that he would face 2004 French Open finalist Guillermo Coria, an Argentine who knew his way around the Parisian clay.

Entering as a huge underdog, the Serb was discounted by many ahead of the match, including two ESPN pundits, Cliff Drysdale and Mary Carillo.

Let’s talk about the guy he’s taking on today, Novak Djokovic, what do we know about him, and what can we expect from him?” asked Drysdale.

“Not a lot,” replied Carillo, as the pair laughed