Novak Djokovic explains why American men's tennis has struggled in Grand Slams

Novak Djokovic explains why American men's tennis has struggled in Grand Slams originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It's been more than two decades since an American man won a Grand Slam in tennis. 

Since Andy Roddick's 2003 victory at the U.S. Open, it's been a string of the Unites States struggling in every major tournament. Novak Djokovic has thoughts of his own as to why Americans are so starved for a Grand Slam title. 

“I don’t think you’re lacking players… it’s just, maybe at the moment, you don’t have someone that would take it to the next step and play for Grand Slams and be top player of the world," Djokovic said. "But that could change very quickly.”

What makes the statement interesting is the subtext behind it. Players like Taylor Fritz, Ben Shelton, Francis Tiafoe, Tommy Paul — all tennis pros that are ranked Americans. 

Djokovic seems to think those players aren't likely to develop into a top-5 on the ATP tour. 

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However, he showed optimism that a new American player could arrive any year and change the narrative.

“I think it’s not a big issue, it’s a matter of time.”

World #9 Taylor Fritz defeats almost 41yo Stan Wawrinka, the 2014 champ, 7-6(5), 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 to reach the last 16 at the #AusOpen vs. Lore Musetti.

Wawrinka was *sensational* all week. His last Australian Open is over. pic.twitter.com/Yf6qdj6SOm

— José Morgado (@josemorgado) January 24, 2026

There was once a day when Americans like Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi ruled the tour. Now, American men are on the outside looking in. 

It was a good sign when Taylor Fritz made the 2024 U.S. Open Final, but the question will remain until an American man hoists a Grand Slam trophy. 

Who could be the hero for the USA? Only time will tell. 

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