Former world No3 Nikolay Davydenko believes the so-called next generation of men’s tennis have yet to show their mettle and should not be considered the future stars of the sport.
The 31-year-old, who advanced to the third round at Roland Garros with a 6-4, 7-5, 6-2 win over Uzbekistan’s Denis Istomin on Friday, was asked what he thought of the likes of Grigor Dimitrov, Benoit Paire and Kei Nishikori and whether they can be considered the future of the men’s tour.
The Russian said: “Future of tennis? Why? What have these guys done that is unbelievable to be (considered) the future of tennis? Not so much.
“They play a good game and have a good level but not something amazing to surprise everyone.
“I played Dimitrov in Rotterdam. Yes, he played good. He has a good serve. He tried to play some baseline and running.
“But something like 'wow', I can’t say that. If he improves his game – he’s young. It’s possible for him to be top-10 or maybe top-five. But I don’t see any surprises now for No1. Maybe if all top-10 guys take a rest, then it can be. But not yet.”
'Boring'
Davydenko, who next faces Frenchman Richard Gasquet in a rematch of the Doha final the Russian lost earlier this year, also commented on Ernests Gulbis’ remarks regarding how “boring” the top-four are with the press.
Gulbis, renowned for speaking his mind and making controversial comments, caused a stir with his statements but Davydenko says the top players are understandably boring.
“Gulbis can say many things,” Davydenko said laughing. “I’m also starting to be boring. I say boring things because the question is about the match. My answer is about my forehand, my backhand… it’s every day the same.
"For sure it’s going to be boring. Your questions are the same every day, every year and the answers will be the same.
“Normally for the top-five, you need to be perfect, you need to be boring.”
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