Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz have already been warned about a rising star who could prove to be their “nightmare”.
Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard won the 2024 ATP Award for Most Improved Player, and he’s carried his form into the new season.
The world No. 31 is making his mark at the Brisbane International, reaching the quarter-final by knocking out the fourth seed.
Mpetshi Perricard had a tough draw at the ATP 250 event in Brisbane. He started his campaign against home favourite Nick Kyrgios, who was returning from a two-year injury layoff.
But the 6’11 Frenchman narrowly came through. Every set went to a tiebreak, with Mpetshi Perricard taking it 7-6(2) 6-7(4) 7-6(3).
He’s now followed it up with a big win over No. 4 seed Frances Tiafoe, needing an hour and 32 minutes to book his spot in the last eight – the fourth quarter-final appearance of his career.
If they both win their next matches, Mpetshi Perricard could face Djokovic for the first time in the semi-final. The 24-time Grand Slam champion will have to be on alert, as one of his old rivals warned that the big-serving Frenchman could be a “nightmare”.
Former world No. 8 John Isner opened up on his first encounter with Mpetshi Perricard on the Nothing Majors podcast, explaining how dangerous the 21-year-old could be.
“He warmed me up at the French Open. I just remember thinking his backhand was really bad but he could crack the ball on the forehand and his serve was obviously huge,” the retired American star said.
“It’s not actually that surprising for me that he did what he did [in the] last year. If he stays healthy, he’s going to be a nightmare for a lot of players in the years to come.”
Djokovic already seems to be aware of the threat Mpetshi Perricard poses. The Serb will face another giant server – 6’11 Reilly Opelka – in the Brisbane International quarter-final.
Ahead of their clash, the 37-year-old mentioned Mpetshi Perricard when discussing the serving maestros.
“We have some big servers in the tournament. Perricard and Opelka. Super tall guys. They could’ve been top-class basketball players if they chose to do that as well,” he smiled.
The 21-year-old Frenchman is also keen to get the chance to face Djokovic in the semis at the weekend. He explained: “I saw I wasn’t in his draw until the semis. I was like, ‘Whew, okay’.
“Yeah, I think it’s going to be a good match if I’m playing against him. Right now I’m not very focused on if because ‘if’ does not exist. I will do my best to beat Mensik.”
If they do meet in the last four, Mpetshi Perricard isn’t afraid of the 24-time Major winner. “On a lucky day, anyone can beat anyone,” he added. “I don’t like this mentality to be scared or not scared.
“I’m just focused on what I can do. If I’m doing good, of course, I will be dangerous. If I’m doing bad, everybody can beat me. Of course, Novak is one of the best players in the world.
“He was the best for couple of years. Yeah, I mean, it’s always impressive to see him in the locker room or see him around. If one day I can play against him, yeah, I have to put this part on the side and be focused on the game because overall it’s just a tennis match.”
