Importance Score: 30 / 100 🔵
Following his exit from the Madrid Open, Novak Djokovic has candidly assessed his current form. The Serbian athlete is currently experiencing a three-match losing streak, marked by consecutive first-round defeats in both Monte-Carlo and Madrid. Despite these setbacks, Djokovic has stated his primary objective remains the French Open, the upcoming Grand Slam tournament.
Djokovic Downplays French Open Expectations
After his defeat against Matteo Arnaldi on Saturday, the 24-time Grand Slam champion suggested he will not be among the “favorites” at Roland Garros, despite his prior successes at the Parisian tournament.
Underperforming in Madrid
Djokovic entered the Madrid Open with tempered expectations. As the world No. 1, he had not participated in the competition for three years, with it being only his second appearance since 2019.
His performance, however, fell short of aspirations. “I was optimistic about advancing further than I did in Monte-Carlo,” said the three-time former champion in Madrid.
Accepting a “New Reality”
“It’s a somewhat unfamiliar reality for me,” he reflected. “Currently, my focus is on securing a match or two, rather than aiming for a deep tournament run. This contrasts sharply with my mindset throughout the past 20-plus years of professional tennis.”
He added, “So, it presents a mental hurdle to confront these sensations on the court, experiencing early exits from tournaments regularly.”
“But, I suppose, that’s the natural progression of a career, and it was inevitable.”
Focus Remains on Roland Garros
Djokovic also suffered a first-round loss at the Monte-Carlo Masters earlier in the month and has stated that his primary focus for this clay season is the French Open. However, he now concedes that he may not be at his peak in Paris.
The 37-year-old elaborated, “Now, I aim to harness this situation as a motivational force for what lies ahead. Grand Slams, as I’ve repeatedly stated, hold paramount importance for me.”
“While I undoubtedly desired victory here, Grand Slams are where I aspire to showcase my finest tennis. Whether I can achieve that at Roland Garros remains uncertain, but I pledge to give my utmost effort.”
Djokovic faces a dwindling timeframe to accrue clay-court victories before the French Open. He is scheduled to compete in the Masters 1000 event in Rome, commencing on May 7.
Possible Wildcard Entry
Additionally, several smaller ATP tournaments are scheduled in the week preceding Roland Garros, potentially offering him a late wildcard entry, similar to his participation in Geneva last year.
The Serbian player has come to terms with the likelihood of not being a prominent contender at the French Open, a scenario he hopes might work to his advantage.
Aiming for a Surprise
“I’ll exert my best efforts going forward. Regarding the Grand Slam, I won’t be entering Roland Garros perceived as a leading favorite. Perhaps that could prove beneficial, time will tell,” he concluded.