Djokovic Admits Concerns Over Form Ahead Of French Open Title Defence

Novak Djokovic has expressed concerns about his performance levels this season as he prepares to defend his title at the French Open. The world number one has yet to secure his first silverware of 2024, following a semi-final defeat by Tomas Machac in Geneva on Friday. Djokovic also fell in the last four in Melbourne and Monte Carlo and suffered a surprising defeat by world number 123 Luca Nardi in the last 32 at Indian Wells.

Djokovic, who parted ways with long-term coach Goran Ivanisevic earlier this year, admitted his confidence is not at its peak ahead of his quest for a record-breaking 25th grand slam singles title at Roland Garros. "Of course, I am worried. I haven't been playing well at all this year," he said after his defeat to Machac. "It's not enjoyment when you are suffering on the court feeling this way. You're not able to focus on tennis when you have other stuff happening. I just hope I can be fit and ready and prepared for Roland Garros."

MACHAC! A first ATP final for Tomas Machac who fights past Djokovic for the biggest win of his career! #ATPGVA pic.twitter.com/aYYjdl8FmK

— ATP Tour (@atptour) May 24, 2024

Despite his struggles, Djokovic acknowledged Machac's performance, stating, "I don't want to take anything away from his win; he deserved it. I don't know what to think about this match, to be honest. I want to forget about it and move on to Paris. It was good that I could come here and play more than one match. I played three. I just need to feel better."

Djokovic will become the fourth man in the Open Era to make 20 or more main-draw appearances at the French Open when he begins his campaign against local wildcard Pierre-Hugues Herbert. A run to the quarter-finals at Roland Garros—without walkovers—would see him surpass Roger Federer for the most singles match wins at majors.

However, an early exit could jeopardise Djokovic's top spot in the ATP rankings, with world number two and reigning Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner close behind. "I've had some good matches here and there, but it is what it is," Djokovic added. "You have to accept it. I don't consider myself a favourite there. I'm going to take it match by match and see how far I can go."