Novak Djokovic calls Rafael Nadal’s injury the ‘perfect opportunity’ to clinch his third title at Roland Garros

Djokovic hopes to make a strong comeback after extended break due to US ban

Novak Djokovic calls Rafael Nadal’s injury the ‘perfect opportunity’ to clinch his third title at Roland Garros

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal (Image via Getty Images)

Prior to his opening match at the Monte Carlo Masters, Novak Djokovic had a few choice words to say. With the clay season underway, Rafael Nadal‘s presence cannot be ignored. Djokovic acknowledged the Spaniard’s injury woes and his consequent absence from the Masters 1000 event in Monaco.

Due to restrictions imposed by governments in the US, the Serb was unable to compete at Indian Wells and the Miami Open. Djokovic will now be trying to get off to a great start on the clay-court swing. With Nadal’s absence, everyone’s chances of claiming the prestigious title have increased. Nadal’s hip injury also gives an advantage to Djokovic at the French Open.

YouTube video

Djokovic also lauded Nadal as the best clay courter of all time. “This is a loss for the tournament and tennis in general, because he is what he is, so far the greatest and most successful tennis player on clay of all time,” said Djokovic. Nadal has won an astounding fourteen Grand Slam titles in Paris and is largely regarded as the clay maestro.

FS Video

Djokovic did not fail to point out the advantages of Nadal’s absence at Monte Carlo, as well as his injury. “We know how many times he won Monaco and all the other clay tournaments…it is an opportunity for all the rest of us, that when he is not there, we try to go as far as possible and win the title,” added the Serbian.

As the Serb has crossed 35, he believes choosing his own tournaments to participate in is also a significant advantage. While he attempts to build on his victory at the Australian Open in January by defeating Nadal to yet another Grand Slam title, it is unclear how Djokovic will perform at Roland Garros.

Also read: Novak Djokovic makes ‘next big 3’ claim, excludes Casper Ruud

Novak Djokovic sets eyes on third Monte Carlo Masters title

Novak Djokovic sets eyes on third Monte Carlo Masters title

After being forced to postpone events in the US last month, World No.1 Novak Djokovic says he hopes to get started right away at Monte Carlo and has started getting ready for the clay season early. “I’ve done more training on clay, which is positive if you think about the clay season,” said Djokovic. Djokovic previously won the title in 2013 and 2015.

The Serb will hope to kick off a great start to create much-needed momentum for a possible clash against Nadal in Paris. The 35-year-old also said he hopes to perform relatively better than compared to the last two seasons. “I’m hoping this year I can start the clay season better than previous years and build my form,” added Djokovic.

Do follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

In case you missed it: