Novak Djokovic has spoken candidly about his search for form and prospects of winning more big titles ahead of his return to the Miami Open.
The legendary Serb is set to make his first appearance at the Masters 1000 tournament in Miami since 2019.
The world No 5, who has won a joint-record six titles at the event, will face Rinky Hijikata in his opening match.
Djokovic arrives in Miami having lost his last three matches — his longest losing streak since 2018.
The 37-year-old retired after losing the first set of his Australian Open semi-final with Alexander Zverev due to a hamstring injury.
The 24-time major winner has lost his two opening matches since the Melbourne Grand Slam: to Matteo Berrettini at the Qatar Open and Botic van de Zandschulp in Indian Wells.
Speaking in his pre-tournament press conference in Miami, Djokovic assessed his start to the season.
“I’m in pursuit to find the desired level of tennis. I haven’t played my best or even close in Indian Wells and Doha,” Djokovic admitted.
Novak Djokovic News
“I haven’t been able to find that quality of tennis that I’ve been looking for. I’m working hard giving it my all on the practice courts and eventually it’s going to come. I know that, hopefully here.
“I played great in Australia. I thought I had a pretty good shot at the title in Melbourne. Unfortunately, it ended for me the way it ended, but nevertheless, it’s still encouraging for me to see that I was able to play the way I was playing Australia.
“I’m still able to win against the likes of Alcaraz. That’s probably the biggest reason why I still keep pushing myself, motivating myself because I know I still have it in my legs, in my hands, in my arms.
“I still have that tennis level that can put me in a good position to win the biggest titles in sport.”
The former world No 1 also reflected on winning his maiden Masters 1000 title at the Miami Open in 2007.
“I’m not a teenager anymore but I’m still playing and I’m still in love with this sport and that Miami win in 2007 was my first Masters 1000 category when it was the biggest title,’’ he said.
“It opened so many doors for me and made me believe in myself more and made me believe that I deserved to be in the mix with the best players in the world, that I’m able to win the biggest title, so it was a huge springboard.
“It meant the world at the time and 18 years later here we are, another Miami. I missed it. I look forward in getting out in front of the very vibrant crowd.
“It’s very international, many South Americans who love tennis. I always loved the atmosphere in Miami. I always thought it was very unique. I can’t wait to get the sensation of walking out on centre court in front of them.”
READ NEXT: Novak Djokovic ranks five tennis legends – including Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer
The post Novak Djokovic issues candid assessment of his form ahead of Miami Open return appeared first on Tennis365.
Leave a Reply