Novak Djokovic stated he’s nonetheless hoping for a ultimate chapter in his storied rivalry with Rafa Nadal after the Spaniard’s withdrawal from the Monte Carlo Masters forged doubt over the 22-times Grand Slam champion’s participation within the French Open.
The 37-year-old Spaniard, who has stated he anticipated to retire after the 2024 season, returned to competitors in Brisbane in January, after virtually a 12 months sidelined with a hip flexor harm, however has not performed an ATP occasion since.
“As a tennis fan I want him to play at least one more tournament before he retires,” world No. 1 Djokovic informed Eurosport in an interview revealed Saturday.
“We all know what he is executed on clay in his profession, significantly Roland Garros.
“That’s his goal, we all know that, he’s been saying it. For the sake of all tennis and Roland Garros in particular, we hope that he can play there. It would be great to have another great encounter.”
Djokovic will start his quest for a 3rd title in Monte Carlo on Tuesday with out coach Goran Ivanisevic in his field, after ending his extremely profitable partnership with the Croatian final month.
The Serbian has been working with former doubles world No. 1 Nenad Zimonjic in latest weeks.
“We have known each other really well for more than 20 years. He’s been always like an older brother to me. A mentor, a friend, who always tried to help me as a person and as a player,” Djokovic stated.
“When I ended with Goran, I used to be beginning my clay-court preparation in Belgrade and he was there. He got here to the courtroom, and we actually loved our collaboration and I requested him to come back right here for a couple of weeks.
“We are trying to make the most of it. He’s been giving me really useful advice to find the proper position when I’m approaching the net, and it’s something I’m not best at because I don’t play as many doubles matches.”
Source: www.dailysabah.com
