Fabrice Santoro claims absence of rivals like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal has resulted in subpar performance from Novak Djokovic

The Frech tennis expert emphasizes the need for motivation for Djokovic.

Fabrice Santoro claims absence of rivals like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal has resulted in subpar performance from Novak Djokovic

L-R: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic (Images via IMAGO)

Former French tennis player Fabrice Santoro has blamed the lack of motivation caused by the absence of ‘a hare’ for Novak Djokovic‘s subpar performance in the 2024 season so far. The tennis expert has reasoned that Djokovic does not have that motivation which he used to possess when his nemesis Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal were active on the tour.

Santoro said that Djokovic used to chase these two players in his early days. Meanwhile, now that he has achieved almost everything and broken all the records, there is a drop in motivation. The Frenchman, however, wants to give the Serbian ace some time to answer all the concerns around his form.

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Notably, Djokovic has not won a title yet in the new season which is very unlike him. The 37-year-old has himself accepted that he is not used to going into the clay season without a title in his bag. Djokovic also searching for an answer for his drop in form and lack of consistency. Meanwhile, Santoro has come up with an explanation.

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Novak has always had a hare. He had Roger, he had Rafa. He was always chasing someone. Where is the hare today? I do not see it. He no longer really has a guy he's chasing after because he's broken all the records: the Grand Slams won, the weeks spent as number 1, the Masters 1000, the face‐to‐face meetings with Federer, with Nadal and with Jo (Tsonga) too! (laughs). The hare is no longer there so perhaps there is a drop in motivation, or not.
Fabrice Santoro said about Novak Djokovic. (H/T: We Love Tennis)

Novak Djokovic taking it step-by-step at 2024 Roland Garros

While the tennis fraternity continues to discuss the concerns about Novak Djokovic‘s drop in form, the Serbian is also well aware of the issues. Thus, Djokovic is taking it step-by-step at the 2024 Roland Garros. After his win over Robert Caraballes Baena in the second round, Djokovic said that he is keeping his expectations low.

Novak Djokovic waving
Novak Djokovic waving (via Imago)

The 24-time Grand Slam champion who is the defending champion at the 2024 Roland Garros admitted that he has not had a lot of wins in his bag in the 2024 season so far. However, Djokovic continues to believe in his capabilities and hopes to replicate his past performances in the tournament going ahead. 

I haven’t had too many wins coming into Roland Garros, so I have to lower my expectations but of course I believe in myself and my capabilities. I know what I am capable of doing. I’ve done it many times in my career. Going far in a Grand Slam has always been the goal… I look forward to what’s coming up.
Novak Djokovic said after reaching the third round at 2024 Roland Garros. (H/T: ATP Tour)

Djokovic will next face one of Gael Monfils and Lorenzo Musetti. The 37-year-old has looked good so far in Paris and will be hoping to maintain the shape in the remaining matches.

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