Novak Djokovic’s Quest for Glory: Understanding the Superstar’s Approach to Success

“My level was really, really bad,” was Novak Djokovic’s ruthless conclusion after his exit in the second round of the ATP Masters in Indian Wells against the blatant outsider Luca Nardi (4:6, 6:3, 3:6). .

Every victory, every trophy would now be worth gold in order to “overcome this negative vortex that I have found myself in for three or four tournaments.”

Unusual words from the mouth of the 24-time Grand Slam winner, who, in contrast to previous years, was still without a single title in mid-March. This circumstance will not change until the end of the month after Djokovic withdrew his participation in the Miami Masters a few days ago. The superstar, who at the ripe old age of 36 wanted to shift his focus primarily to the major tournaments on the ATP Tour, seems to be to waver. At least that’s what public self-doubt suggests.

“I’m not worried. I was actually always worried that Novak would win too often,” says Eurosport expert Mats Wilander, looking behind Djokovic’s facade – which should be a warning signal to the competition.

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Djokovic focus on the Grand Slams

After his defeat in the semi-finals of the Australian Open against Jannik Sinner, Djokovic had already announced that he would only be extremely selective in the late autumn of his career. Number one in the world rankings is no longer the measure of all things for him, “now the focus is on the Grand Slams.” A statement that, according to Wilander, explains the current situation surrounding Djokovic. The Serb doesn’t have to be in better shape at the moment, after all there are still around two months until the French Open in Paris (May 20th to June 9th live and on-demand at discovery+).

“And then,” Wilander puts himself in Djokovic’s situation, “I have to be in top shape for the French Open and Wimbledon, prevail and hope for the Olympic Games.”

Wilander deciphers Djokovic riddles

Djokovic is currently in a kind of “offseason”. Of course, another Sunshine Double in the trophy cabinet would have been something special, but the timing makes the difference. “It’s about winning a few matches and understanding that he’s very close,” says Wilander.

According to the seven-time Grand Slam winner, Djokovic won’t be bothered by defeats: “He doesn’t care if he loses in smaller tournaments.” Rather, his operations there can be equated with tests.

“He comes to the competition, plays against the best in the world and after he gets a few wins he realizes: ‘Okay, I’m close enough,'” said Wilander.

Novak Djokovic

Fotocredit: Getty Images

The freshness makes Djokovic dangerous

At first glance, this tactic may seem surprising. But the fact that seven of the last 13 major trophies have ended up in Djokovic’s hands is by no means a happy coincidence.

“He hasn’t won too much in recent years, which is why he has won so many Grand Slam titles – because he was fresh,” emphasizes Wilander.

In ATP tournaments in the lower categories or in Masters, this may not always be the deciding factor. But as soon as it goes over five sets on the big stage, Djokovic’s strategy bears its golden fruit.

The top competitors are “not worried about Novak when it comes to the physical part. Unless it goes beyond three sets out of five. Then they worry,” said Wilander.

A circumstance that should reassure the fans of the Serbian superstar: “Novak knows all of this. I wouldn’t worry. And I’m sure he won’t worry either.”

French Open: Wilander sees Djokovic as the favorite

The cancellation in Miami does not change Djokovic’s exceptional status. Rather, the decision should be perceived as a warning signal to the competition.

“I would be worried if he played,” admits Wilander. With a possible start in Florida, Djokovic would have signaled to his opponents that he is not yet in top form and still needs practice on the court.

“And the fact that he doesn’t do that and that he said that is a sign of strength and self-confidence,” says Wilander: “But perhaps also a sign of the times.”

After all, even a shining figure like Djokovic isn’t getting any younger. A withdrawal due to physical concerns – who could blame him? “We can’t tell the difference,” Wilander explains: “But I don’t think that’s the case. He was fresh. Novak is ready and is just waiting for the clay court season to start.”

After Miami, the ATP tour returns to the red surface and thus heralds the preparation for the French Open. “Then Roland Garros will come around the corner for him so quickly. And here we are again. Djokovic is the favorite at the French Open,” says Wilander.

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2024-03-21 18:43:00
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