World No. 1 Novak Djokovic has admitted that he is still dealing with an elbow issue ahead of the Srpska Open, as he prepares for the French Open, following his early exit from the Monte Carlo Masters last week. Djokovic is looking to get back on track after his third-round defeat to Lorenzo Musetti in Monte Carlo last week. The Italian broke Djokovic’s serve eight times during the match, resulting in his early exit from the tournament.
In a recent interview with reporters, Djokovic revealed that his elbow is “not in an ideal shape but good enough to be ready for the first match” at the Srpska Open.
Despite his concerns, Djokovic remains optimistic about his upcoming matches, saying that one of the good things about tennis is that “you get new opportunity to prove your worth every week and take a step forward”.
He added, “Naturally, I wasn’t satisfied with the result in Monte Carlo. But, ever since I landed, I’ve felt welcomed in Banja Luka, a lot of positive energy and positive emotions.”
Facing young French player in Srpska Open
Djokovic will face 18-year-old French player Luca Van Assche in his first match at the Srpska Open on Wednesday. Van Assche recently claimed a 1-6 7-6(4) 6-4 victory over three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka.
Djokovic admitted that he doesn’t know much about the young French player but said, “I thought Wawrinka would win the match. I saw (Van Assche) play but not for long, he is a real fighter, fast, it’s difficult to get past him. No one should be underestimated.”
Van Assche, who is ranked 87th in the world, said that it is a privilege to play against Djokovic, calling him a “true champion” not only in tennis but in sports in general.
The French Open, the second Grand Slam of the season, is set to begin on May 28. Djokovic will be looking to get his preparations back on track at the Srpska Open as he aims to win his 19th Grand Slam title and edge closer to Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles.
Despite his elbow issues, Djokovic is determined to give his best at the Srpska Open and is confident that he will be ready for the challenge.
