Novak Djokovic Aims To Lower Expectations Amidst Challenging Season Start
Novak Djokovic acknowledges the need to temper his expectations as he gears up to defend his French Open title. The Serbian tennis star has yet to reach a final in 2024, having been eliminated in the semi-finals in Australia, Monte-Carlo, and most recently Geneva, where he lost to Tomas Machac.
Djokovic also faced unexpected defeats against Alejandro Tabilo in Rome and world number 123 Luca Nardi at Indian Wells in the round of 32. Despite these setbacks, the 24-time Grand Slam winner aims to leverage his extensive experience to break his trophy drought this season.
"I would say that I know what I'm capable of, and particularly in the Grand Slams I normally play the best tennis, at least I aim always to play the best tennis, and I was most of my career able to do that, so that's the goal," Djokovic stated upon his arrival in France.
He added, "I have been saying, you know, for quite a while that in terms of clay, I want to peak here in Paris, in Roland Garros. Last year I had an amazing year, and particularly here in Roland Garros, and hopefully, I can have a great tournament."
Djokovic emphasized the importance of managing expectations: "My hopes and goals are always the same, but I have to lower the expectations. When I say that I mean, you know, maybe not thinking too much ahead in advance in terms of the tournament and who I might face in the later rounds, but really taking it day by day, step by step, and really building my game."
The Serbian player admitted that consistency has been an issue: "That's what I have really been struggling with, not really playing at a consistently good level."
Upcoming Match
Djokovic is set to face French wildcard Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the first round on Tuesday. The match will be a crucial test for Djokovic as he seeks to regain his form and confidence on clay.
Oui meet again. #rolandgarros pic.twitter.com/SlZFufBlqu
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) May 26, 2024
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