FACTFILE DOB: 22.03.1975 Nationality: Czech World ranking: 14 Roland Garros record 2002:: third round 2001:: third round 2000:: first round 1999:: second round |
Novak came from nowhere last year to claim a place in the world's top 10 and capped a memorable season with a win over Andre Agassi at the Masters Cup.
It was a stunning improvement for a man generally regarded beforehand as a journeyman pro.
And there was nothing fortunate in such a high ranking for a player who reached three finals and five semi-finals, including a last-four place at the Australian Open.
But that fine record also suggests that the 28-year-old does not quite have what it takes to win at the very highest level, and last year may well prove to be the high point of his career.
Novak has a solid if unspectacular baseline game that should prosper on clay courts, but the Czech's record at Roland Garros is poor.
He has yet to make it past the third round in six attempts and, if he is to find Grand Slam success, it is more likely to come on the hardcourts of Australia or the US.
Home
MMIX
Email this to a friend 
Printable version 
