Novak Djokovic rivals have ‘no chance’ against him at Australian Open without ‘real belief’, says John McEnroe

John McEnroe believes that rivals of Novak Djokovic will need ‘real belief’ if they are to have any chance of defeating him at the Australian Open.

World No. 1 Djokovic is due to kickstart his campaign for an 11^th Melbourne title against qualifier Dino Prizmic on Sunday.

Despite suffering an injury to his wrist whilst competing at the United Cup at the beginning of the month, McEnroe still believes he is the man to beat.

‘’He [Djokovic] looks incredible, last year was monumental at his age, to be that great still," McEnroe told Eurosport.

"Maybe we’re not sure about his wrist and if he’s 100% right now but that happened the last two years. He still won both years despite perceived injuries.

“People think he’ll be OK but I don’t know where he is physically. Technically he’s the best player I’ve seen: mentally, physically.

‘’Unless you have the real belief in your head that you can beat him, you’ve got no chance at all.’’

McEnroe acknowledged that few players from the new generation have been able to rise to the challenge of defeating the 24-time Grand Slam champion.

“A few players can rise to the occasion such as Alcaraz at Wimbledon, but few have,’’ he said.

‘’He’s won 10 Australian Opens and the law of averages would say someone at some point will win another one.

"But we said the same about Rafa [Nadal] at the French so who knows what will happen.’’