Novak Djokovic lists down his biggest threats at the 2023 Australian Open as he eyes his 10th Major Down Under
Novak Djokovic confident yet aware of his competitors at the upcoming 2023 Australian Open.
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Novak Djokovic - IMAGO / Xinhua
Novak Djokovic had a fantastic return to Australia. Playing as the top seed in the 2023 Adelaide International, he defeated Sebastian Korda in the finals. Having reached the finals not dropping a single set, he lost the first set in the finals.
As the second set also went into the tiebreaker, the Serb had to save a championship point to force the decider set. He eventually came on top to claim his 92nd career title. The win meant he is now on level with arch-rival Rafael Nadal on the list of most career titles won.
As the focus shifts to the 2023 Australian Open, things are heating up. Djokovic is looking to match Nadal’s Grand Slam title tally as he trails by one. He is also looking to win his record-extending 10th Australian Open title. Amidst this, the Serb revealed his list of players who he feels are a threat for him this year in Melbourne Park.
“All the players from the top are the biggest rivals, that is always the case. Tsitsipas, Sinner, Zverev, of course Medvedev and Nadal, who is a veteran just like me. When it comes to younger players, it is obvious that Carlos Alcaraz, who sadly won’t be playing in Melbourne, and Holger Rune are frontrunners.
“They are both 19 years old, and Alcaraz is deservedly No 1, he had a fantastic year. At this moment in time, I think it is even more interesting for people to watch Grand Slams – when we are all there and healthy, it is dramatic and fascinating to follow who will claim the trophy,” said Djokovic speaking with Sasa Ozmo in his latest interview for Tennis Majors.
Novak Djokovic reaches Melbourne Park unbeaten in Australia since 2018
Only Rafael Nadal‘s 14 French Open titles are ahead of Novak Djokovic’s tally of nine Australian Open trophies. Roger Federer won eight Wimbledon titles but that was eclipsed by the Serb in 2021.
Since his fourth-round upset by Chung Hyeon in the 2018 Australian Open, Nole is yet to lose a match on Australian soil. He claimed his second hattrick of Australian Open titles from 2019 to 2021 overtaking Federer’s record of six Australian Open titles. He was the three-time defending champion when he was deported from Australia in 2022.
As he returns, his victorious week in Adelaide means he is now unbeaten in the country in 34 consecutive matches. With 34 consecutive wins, a title under his belt, and supreme confidence, Djokovic will be a big contender for the Australian Open trophy.
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Sarthak Shitole
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