Novak Djokovic before his entry into the running at Roland-Garros: “Yes, I took a look at the draw. I think every player always looks at the whole draw and studies it, in a way. I trained mainly with right-handed players and I play with a left-handed person, so it’s difficult (smiles, editor’s note: is he thinking of Yoshihito Nishioka, his first opponent, or of Rafael Nadal who is promised to him in the quarter-finals?)
But you can only focus on your next game. We will have to start well against Nishioka. Obviously, it’s a very difficult first half of the table, but that’s how it is. I believe in my ability to go far. Reliving memories from last year is something that gives me goosebumps and motivation to try and replicate that. The experience of being on the circuit for so long helps to know how to manage the energy on the court and bring out the right intensity.
“With Tsonga, we always got along very well. I have a lot of respect for him. He’s a really nice guy. He brought a lot of positive attention to our sport with the way he behaved and played. »
I wish Jo (Wilfried Tsonga) the best possible farewell to tennis, and I’m sure he will have a lot of support. I’m sure it’s going to be very emotional for him. He was one of the most charismatic and energetic tennis players. By developing a lot of power. When he was at his best, he was consistently in the top 10 in the world.
We played our first Grand Slam final together (Australian Open 2008). And I know him very well also since the juniors. We always got along very well. I have a lot of respect for him. He’s a really nice guy. He brought a lot of positive attention to our sport with the way he behaved and played. I think he can be very proud of everything he has brought and achieved. »
