By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Friday, April 21, 2023
To anybody who watched Novak Djokovic’s two matches at Banja Luka this week, it’s clear that the 22-time Grand Slam champion is working nicely under his peak stage. Today’s loss to compatriot Dusan Lajovic was proof of that, however it doesn’t imply that the Serb is in large bother with regards to hitting his peak at Roland-Garros.
There have been truly some good indicators this week.
First, Djokovic took off the compression sleeve that he was carrying to guard his elbow and stated that he feels good in that regard. Second, he bought two matches below his belt. Whether they have been as much as snuff by his lofty requirements or not, there’s actual worth in that for the World No.1.
He is dissatisfied in his play, however is skilled and is aware of that point is on his aspect. There are 5 weeks till Roland-Garros begins, and two Masters 1000 occasions at Madrid and Rome in between. He’ll have time to place the items collectively.
It may very well be rust after a long-layoff or the elbow may very well be a real concern. Worrying occasions for Novak followers https://t.co/4LlryVeZty
— Tennis Majors (@Tennis_Majors) April 21, 2023
“I had my chances, but I didn’t take them,” he stated of his effort on Friday in Banja Luka, in keeping with Tennis Majors. “I played quite passively, with many mistakes and that resulted in the defeat.
“I was way below my desired level. I can’t win against opponents who are so solid on this surface with this game. I didn’t even feel good physically on the court: I felt slow, with sluggish legs; I missed a lot of balls and was totally out of [position]. At times I played well, but well below my level.”
It’s not best, however it’s pretty regular to see Djokovic battle in his first few outings on clay. In the previous we’ve seen him discover his recreation at Rome and carry that type over to Roland-Garros. Barring any unexpected accidents, why ought to we suspect that this season could be any completely different?
With Nadal struggling to get match, Djokovic is aware of he has a superb alternative to say a 3rd title in Paris, and a twenty third main. It’s cheap to suppose he was taking part in it protected in Banja Luka, being cautious to not hit out an excessive amount of in order that his elbow continues to get well. Or that he merely hasn’t gained consolation timing the ball and his footwork on the clay.
But let’s not make the error of pondering that he isn’t among the best clay-court gamers of his era and the person to beat at Roland-Garros if Nadal is not at full health.
#Djokovic: I hope to be prepared for Roland Garros. Last few years I’d begin slowly on clay as nicely, solely to begin taking part in higher.
— Saša Ozmo (@ozmo_sasa) April 21, 2023
Source: www.tennisnow.com