Even though John Isner will fall out of the Top 20 next week, Novak Djokovic believes the American can rise up the rankings again. Isner fell to Djokovic in the fourth round at Indian Wells, 6-4, 7-6 (5), after reaching the semifinals there last year.
"He was Top 10. He's a quality player," Djokovic said. "If he serves this well, he also moves pretty good for somebody that is as tall as him. He has big forehand. I think since started working with Justin Gimelstob he's trying to emphasize his aggressive game. Yes, he's missing a lot, but, again, all he needs is one double fault from an opponent, couple of good, aggressive shots and the break is there. With his serve, if he serves well, regardless of the surface you're playing on against him, can win against anybody."
The eight-time Grand Slam champion said that for Isner, it's difficult to be moving fast since he's so tall.
"It's not easy to be consistent, to be healthy and to be fit," Djokovic said. "If you are 6'10", two or three times more effort you have to invest physically on the court than maybe myself or some other player. I'm sure that he's going to get better, but it takes time for him to recover, especially when he plays on clay with all the slides and everything. But he was Top 10. Everybody is aware of his quality, and I'm sure that he can be again."