Inspiring Djokovic key to Agassi's return

Former world No.1 Andre Agassi says he is inspired by Novak Djokovic and wants to coach the defending French Open champion to many more grand-slam titles.

Andre Agassi talks to Novak Djokovic

Andre Agassi says he would not have come back to tennis if not for Novak Djokovic. (AAP)

Andre Agassi says he would not have come back to tennis if not for Novak Djokovic, a player he believes still has many other grand-slam titles to win.

The 47-year-old American agreed last month to coach Djokovic, who had been through a crisis of confidence since winning his 12th major title at last year's French Open.

Asked by French sports daily L'Equipe on Saturday if any other player could have drawn him back to a sport he once hated, Agassi said: "I don't know. Novak inspired me, he gave me the desire to make that effort.

"Many other players have approached me before - I cannot say who. Novak is 30, he won 12 grand-slam titles and I know he has the capacity to win many others."

Agassi, who won majors himself, retired in 2006.

The former world No.1 is in Paris where Djokovic is defending his title, but will leave on holidays next week with his family.

"Novak is a good guy and he's a chance for this sport. And I can help him. I think he will get better every day," he said.

"It's inspiring to be with him. Sometimes, you follow your heart and I think it's the time for me to take care of this guy."


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Source: AAP



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