“Hopefully I can deliver,” Novak Djokovic still has lower expectations from himself at French Open but still believes in his capabilities

Djokovic has improved his season record to 16-6.

“Hopefully I can deliver,” Novak Djokovic still has lower expectations from himself at French Open but still believes in his capabilities

Novak Djokovic (Image via Imago)

World No.1 Novak Djokovic is having a good time at the Roland Garros following his two excellent victories. Despite the wins, the Serbian is still keeping his expectations low for the French Open, but aware and knows what he can do.

The 37-year-old arrived at the Roland Garros with disappointing results. Djokovic exited the Italian Open in the third round, losing to Chilean Alejandro Tabilo in a straight set. He was hoping to redeem his season and save his No.1 position at the Geneva Open. However, that failed to materialize as he lost to Tomas Machac in the semifinals of the ATP 250 tournament.

YouTube video

In Paris, he seems to have found a glimpse of his form. The 24-time Grand Slam champion beat Pierre-Hugues Herbert 6-4, 7-6, 6-4 in the first round of the French Open. On Thursday, he sailed to the third round beating Spain’s Roberto Carballes Baena 6-4, 6-1, 6-2. It was Djokovic’s first free-floating match since Monte Carlo and is now gaining momentum in the clay major but remains far from winning the title.

FS Video

After the victory, Djokovic still believes he is not a favorite to win his fourth French Open title. Nevertheless, he believes in his capabilities, having won many titles in previous years when not expected to win.

I haven’t had too many wins coming into Roland Garros. I had to lower my expectations. I always believe in myself and capabilities. I know what I’m capable of doing. I’ve done it many times in my career. Going far in a slam has always been the goal. The last 5 years more so than the first 15 years of my career. I look forward to what’s coming up and hopefully I can deliver the goods today.
Novak Djokovic said in interview with Jon Wertheim for Tennis Channel

Novak Djokovic to face either Lorenzo Musetti in the third round of the French Open

Djokovic is without a title this year but has improved his season record to 16-6 and 8-3 on clay. He is yet to get to a final in any tournament this season, despite reaching three semifinals already.

Novak Djokovic Roland Garros
Novak Djokovic (via Imago)

Nonetheless, he will face Lorenzo Musetti in the third round of the Roland Garros. He is the clear favorite to beat the third-round opponent without much challenge.

Against Musetti, the Serbian has won four of his five meetings with the Italian. The last time they met was at the Monte Carlo Masters in April, with Djokovic winning in straight set.

Meanwhile, Djokovic, if not defeated, is not slated to meet a Top 10 opponent until Casper Ruud in the quarter-finals. Perhaps, with no stronger opponent, Djokovic might find his Grand Slam form and defend his title.

In case you missed it: