Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz under threat as 'nightmare' player makes his mark

Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz have already been warned about a rising star

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”.

Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard is through to the Brisbane International quarter-final

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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.

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