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 – except for his undignified deportation in 2022 as a result 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 shedding the primary set to Alexander Zverev.
Aged 38, Djokovic is aware of his finest years are behind him however continues to be clinging on to the hope he can document a document twenty fifth grand slam triumph.
“I attempt to focus myself on what I’ve achieved, not what I’m probably reaching,” Djokovic stated. “I imply, I hope it involves that, however 24 can be not a nasty quantity. I’ve to understand that and remind myself of the wonderful profession I had and in addition, , launch a few of that pointless strain.
“I imply, clearly there may be all the time strain and expectations, however, , I don’t suppose it’s wanted for me to essentially go far by way of make-it-or-break-it kind of factor, [a] now-or-never kind of mentality. I don’t really feel it’s mandatory. Neither does that permit me to excel and carry out my finest.”
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 finest.
He added: “I’m simply grateful to have one other shot, notably right here, a spot the place I received 10 Grand Slam titles and been constantly enjoying properly and reaching the ultimate phases.
“Final couple of years additionally semifinals, ’24 semifinals, ’25. Had an incredible 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.
