Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic defeats signal ‘changing of the guard’ – Patrick McEnroe

Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic defeats at the Shanghai Masters are a sign that there is a changing of the guard in men’s tennis.

That is the view of former American player and tennis analyst Patrick McEnroe.

Djokovic was beaten in three sets by young Greek star Stefanos Tsitsipas then a few hours later Federer was defeated by Alexander Zverev.

It means the tournament is the first Masters event since 2011 with four semi-finalists under the age of 27.

It is also the first since 1999 with four semi-finalists under the age of 24.

Federer, Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have enjoyed unparalleled success over the last 15 years but McEnroe believes change is coming.

McEnroe tweeted: “Quite a day @SH_RolexMasters as all 4 young guys beat Djoker, Fed, Thiem and Fognini.

“Today is the start of the changing of the guard in men’s tennis. Bank on it.”

People responding to McEnroe’s tweet were not as convinced.

One fan wrote: “I’ve heard this “changing of the guard” narrative before.”

While another said: “Been hearing this for 4 yrs.

“Changing of the guard won’t change until someone new wins a major.”

And another concluded: “I think your hoping. Next Gens do well at the end of the year.

“However, their test will be consistency throughout the year. I think Daniil is on that course. We will see.”

After losing to Tsitsipas, Djokovic was asked if the Greek had the potential to world No 1 in the future and the Wimbledon champion had no doubts.

He said: “He definitely has, yes.”

source: express.co.uk