Novak Djokovic Aims for Top Performance at French Open, Begins Preparation at Italian Open

World’s leading tennis player, 36-year-old Novak Djokovic, expressed confidence in reaching his best form for the upcoming French Open, starting with his participation in the Italian Open that commenced this Wednesday. Speaking at a press conference in Rome, Djokovic emphasized his focus on the major tournaments ahead, including the French Open, Wimbledon, and the Olympic Games, explaining his absence from the Madrid Open as a strategic decision.

“The schedule was planned with Rome in mind; that was the main reason for skipping Madrid,” Djokovic explained during the Rome event press briefing.

With his 37th birthday approaching on May 22, just before the French Open kicks off on May 26, Djokovic is keen to outdo his last appearance at the Monte Carlo Masters, where he was defeated in the semi-finals by Casper Ruud.

“I am on the right track to peak at Roland Garros in Paris,” he stated. “I am hopeful that my performance here in Rome will surpass that in Monte Carlo. It’s my aim to advance far in the tournament, but we will see how it goes.”

As the top seed and a six-time Italian Open champion, Djokovic benefits from a first-round bye. He mentioned that the extended duration of nearly two weeks for the Rome and Madrid events, similar to those of Indian Wells and Miami, provides additional recovery time between matches, which is advantageous for him.

In team news, Djokovic has reinstated his former physiotherapist Miljan Amanovic for select weeks this season. Amanovic has been a part of Djokovic’s team on and off since 2007. Recent months saw Djokovic making several changes to his team, including parting ways with coach Goran Ivanisevic and his publicity staff.

Djokovic emphasized the importance of a supportive and skilled team. “It’s crucial to have a quality team with experts in various fields who not only bring experience and knowledge but also understand the psychological aspects needed when support or space is required,” he said.

He highlighted the extensive time spent with the team on tour, often seeing them more than his own family, especially during his younger years when he traveled almost every week.