Novak Djokovic says Rafael Nadal’s quality means he ‘has a mountain to climb’ at French Open
Novak Djokovic says he has ‘a mountain to climb’ if he is to win the French Open, mainly due to Rafael Nadal’s quality on clay.
The Serbian currently holds all the Grand Slam titles other than Roland Garros, and he will attempt to make it a full set at this years tournament.
However, Rafael Nadal defeated him in the final of the Italian Open last week, and Djokovic knows the threat the Spaniard possesses on his favoured surface.
“Nadal (is) the number one favourite without a doubt, and then everyone else,” Djokovic is quoted as saying by Rueters.
“I think it’s going to be a really good tournament. Dominic Thiem has been playing some good tennis and he can beat anybody, especially on clay.
“Fognini is also playing quality tennis, he showed against Nadal in Monte Carlo what he is capable of,” he added referring to the Italian’s 6-4 6-2 semi-final victory.
“On a given day, best of five (sets), with one day between matches, players will have enough time to really be at their best.
“Everybody is trying to peak for Roland Garros and I am really looking forward to it.”
Follow us on Twitter @T365Official and like our Facebook page.
More from Tennis365:
-
-
Judy Murray EXCLUSIVE: Women’s tennis needs to replace outgoing superstars
-
Jamie Murray gives Andy Murray fitness update and rules out Wimbledon doubles pairing
-
Lleyton Hewitt impressed by ‘unbelievable atmosphere’ of new look Wimbledon No.1 Court
-
The 2019 French Open: When is it, who are the defending champions, the draw, TV channel, prize money
-
FEATURE: Meet Roy Erskine, Andy Murray’s grandfather and former professional footballer
-
Latest
-
Tennis NewsFormer Olympian suggests Naomi Osaka has made her life more difficult after media boycott
Osaka is set to return to action for the first time since she pulled out of the French Open at the Olympics
-
Tennis NewsAndy Murray reveals his daughter gave him inspiration after Wimbledon defeat
Murray revealed a chat with his daughter helped him reassess his Wimbledon disappointment as he targets an Olympic medal.
-
Tennis NewsNovak Djokovic gives his pre-Olympics press conference as he targets a gold medal
Djokovic struck a confident tone ahead of his bid for a first Olympic gold medal in Tokyo.
-
NewsNovak Djokovic handed tough Olympics draw as he practices with Andy Murray
Djokovic may have to beat Alexander Zverev and Andrey Rublev to reach the gold medal match in the Tokyo Olympics.
-
Kevin PalmerAndy Murray’s former coach on what happens next for the former world No.1
Alex Corretja urges Andy Murray to continue to play as long as he still enjoys it.
-
Kevin PalmerThe ultimate guide to the best tennis trainers on the market
A look at the best tennis trainers on the market for players of all standards.
-
News‘A beacon of hope’ – Andy Murray on why the Olympic Games mean so much to him
The greatest sporting event of them all has a special place in Andy Murray’s heart.
-
Tennis NewsNovak Djokovic posts emotional Instagram message to toast his Wimbledon win
He has taken time to gather his…
-
Kevin PalmerWho is playing at the Tokyo Olympics, latest odds and can anyone stop Novak Djokovic?
World No.1 and history chasing Novak Djokovic will dominate the agenda in Tokyo.
-
TennisAshleigh Barty opts against staying in the Olympic village as she arrives in Tokyo
Barty has arrived in Tokyo for the Olympic Games, but she will not be staying at the athletes’ village.