Djokovic’s grand plan

Novak Djokovic has put the tennis world on notice, saying that a calendar grand slam is achievable.

CLAY FEAT: A relieved Novak Djokovic tries to take in his win in the French Open. Picture: Christophe Ena

Novak Djokovic has put the tennis world on notice, saying that a calendar grand slam is achievable.

Australian Rod Laver is the last man to achieve the feat in 1969 with Djokovic joining Laver and Don Budge as the only men to have held all four major titles simultaneously after winning his first French Open crown with a 3-6 6-1 6-2 6-4 result over Andy Murray.

The victory in Paris was Djokovic’s 12th major title, putting him two behind Rafael Nadal and Pete Sampras and five off Roger Federer, who holds the record with 17 grand slam singles trophies.

Djokovic said he was privileged to be mentioned in the same breath as Laver but hoped there could be more to come.

“Well, I don’t want to sound arrogant, but I really think everything is achievable in life,” said the 29-year-old Serb, when asked about a calendar grand slam.

“It’s incredibly flattering to know that Rod Laver is the last one that managed to do it (the calendar slam).

“It’s one of the ultimate challenges that you have as a tennis player.”