Roger Federer hasn’t won a Grand Slam title since winning Wimbledon in 2012, but is still good enough to add to his record tally of 17 major triumphs, feels Goran Ivanisevic.
With Rafael Nadal's future clouded by recurring injuries, world number one Novak Djokovic stands firmly in the way of Federer and his 18th Grand Slam title.
Though 33-year-old Federer has beaten Djokovic recently, his last win against the Serb in a Grand Slam was in the 2012 Wimbledon final.
"It gets tougher from here but I still think Roger can win a Grand Slam," said Ivanisevic, who is in Delhi for the Road to Wimbledon programme, on Thursday.
"He can also beat Novak in a major, but if it goes down to the fifth set Novak has a better chance because he is physically better.
“At the same time, Federer can wrap up the match in three or four sets. Federer is Federer.
"As soon he steps on the court, he is ready, he is tough and nobody can underestimate him. He played great last year though he did not win a Grand Slam. This year as well he has been good and it is going to an interesting season," said the Croatian.
The game has a lot more money than the time when Ivanisevic played. So much so that the former Wimbledon champion is amazed to see the attitude of some up-and-coming players.
"These days you have players who are 13 and 14 and they know about the prize-money of all tournaments beforehand. They are talking sponsors, endorsements and what not. Money is important, but at a young age you just have to think about enjoying the game. The game is beautiful," said Ivanisevic.
What's easier? Coaching from the sidelines or playing on court?
"Oh, I have to say, it is much easier to play. I am still learning as a coach. It took me couple of months to learn certain things, it didn't matter if I was a good player.
“As a coach, you got to know what to say, when to say. I learned from other coaches on tour. It is complicated. You need to be patient. You have to believe in your player and he has to believe in you."
