‘I have to take it moment by moment,’ says Novak Djokovic as he eases into round three

ATP Tour
Novak Djokovic US Open

Novak Djokovic believes he needs to take it ‘moment by moment’ at the US Open to overcome the mental pressure of chasing the calendar slam.

Djokovic beat Tallon Griekspoor 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 in the second round, with him producing a much-improved performance.

If he can win the US Open he will become the first man for 52 years to win a calendar slam after already winning the Australian Open, Roland Garros, and Wimbledon this season.

However, he knows he will have to deal with extreme mental pressure if he is to achieve it.

“Probably it’s more mental and emotional, really,” Djokovic said when asked about whether chasing the calendar slam is more taxing physically or mentally.

“Physically, I feel great. I can go a couple of hours every day. I don’t mind being on the court for a long time.

“Actually the longer the match goes, I feel I have more chances to win against anybody in best of five.

“So it’s really more about handling everything that is happening off the court, all the expectations.

“But as I’ve said, [it’s] trying to take it moment by moment, really stay in the present moment, and get the most out of it.

“I’m as motivated as ever to do well. I’m not the only player who wants to go deep in the tournament.

“Hopefully, [I’ll] get my hands on the trophy. That’s why I’m here. I’m trying to be the best I can be every single day. Let’s see what happens.”#

Djokovic will face former US Open finalist Kei Nishikori in the third round on Saturday.

Novak Djokovic US Open

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