“Wonder whether the motivation is there, ” Martina Navratilova curious about Novak Djokovic’s case as she breaks down his year so far

Novak Djokovic heads into Roland Garros title-less.

“Wonder whether the motivation is there, ” Martina Navratilova curious about Novak Djokovic’s case as she breaks down his year so far

Novak Djokovic(L), Martina Navratilova (R) (Via Imago)

2024 has been a challenging year for Novak Djokovic, who has yet to win a title and has not reached a final. As he heads into Roland Garros, tennis critics are questioning his motivation and chances of performing well over the next two weeks.

One of those critics is Martina Navratilova, who wonders if Djokovic’s motivation is still intact. Despite his efforts in the Geneva Open, the Serbian failed to make it past the semi-finals. Although he was the clear favorite, he still could not clinch his first title of the season.

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He would have liked a better preparation than what he got which is why played in Geneva, but he loses the third set 6-1 and kind of I don't know wanted to really win that semi-final match. It's not been a great year for him and he’s not been injured, so we have to wonder whether the motivation is there. 

Martina Navratilova said via Tennis Channel

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Navratilova does have a fair point in her assessment. After a strong comeback in the second set, winning 6-0, the Serbian could not sustain his momentum and ultimately lost to Tomas Machac 4-6, 6-0, 1-6. This marked another tough loss for the Serbian, who is still searching for his first title of the year.

With the French Open approaching, both his title and his spot as World No. 1 are at risk. Jannik Sinner is quickly closing in on points, and another failed run could result in the Serbian losing his top position.

Novak Djokovic is extremely worried heading into Roland Garros titleless

It is a title drought for the World No.1 Novak Djokovic in 2024 so far. As a player who has consistently started his year with a trophy, failing to secure one this year is a significant setback. He has not even reached a final in the five tournaments he has played so far.

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal
Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)

Looking back at the form, even Djokovic is concerned about his form for the French Open. 

Of course I am worried... I haven't been playing good at all this year. [I’ve had] some [good] matches here and there, but it is what it is. You have to accept it. I don’t consider myself a favorite there. I’m going to take it match by match and see how far I can go.
said Novak Djokovic via Roland Garros press

With the clay Grand Slam starting today, all eyes will be on Djokovic and how far he advances. Anything less than a finals appearance will cost him his top ranking, though securing that position is not his primary focus this year.

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