Novak Djokovic opens his problem for an eleventh Australian Open title on Monday when he takes on Spain’s Pedro Martinez.
Djokovic’s love affair with Melbourne – other than his undignified deportation in 2022 because of Covid guidelines – exhibits no signal of easing and the Serb reached the semi-finals 12 months in the past earlier than having to retire after dropping the primary set to Alexander Zverev.
Aged 38, Djokovic is aware of his greatest years are behind him however continues to be clinging on to the hope he can report a report twenty fifth grand slam triumph.
“I attempt to focus myself on what I’ve achieved, not what I’m presumably reaching,” Djokovic mentioned. “I imply, I hope it involves that, however 24 can be not a foul quantity. I’ve to understand that and remind myself of the superb profession I had and in addition, you understand, launch a few of that pointless strain.
“I imply, clearly there may be at all times strain and expectations, however, you understand, I don’t suppose it’s wanted for me to essentially go far by way of make-it-or-break-it sort of factor, [a] now-or-never sort of mentality. I don’t really feel it’s essential. Neither does that enable me to excel and carry out my greatest.”
Djokovic assured he can nonetheless beat Alcaraz and Sinner
Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are the 2 dominant male gamers within the sport however Djokovic continues to be assured he can see off the Spaniard and the Italian when at his greatest.
He added: “I’m simply grateful to have one other shot, significantly right here, a spot the place I gained 10 Grand Slam titles and been constantly enjoying effectively and reaching the ultimate phases.
“Final couple of years additionally semifinals, ’24 semifinals, ’25. Had an awesome win towards Carlos in quarters final 12 months.
“Look, I do know that after I’m wholesome, after I’m in a position to put all of the items of the puzzle collectively on a given day, I really feel like I can beat anyone. If I don’t have that self-belief and confidence in myself, I wouldn’t be right here.”
Martinez is ranked 71st on the earth and has not gone past the second spherical at Melbourne Park.
