Djokovic looking to reignite ‘fire and passion’

Novak Djokovic is eager to get back to his very best as he prepares to win a seventh Australian Open title after a lengthy lay-off with an elbow injury.
The Serbian has been sidelined for the last six months and while he is not back to peak condition just yet, he is becoming more comfortable with each day that passes.
“I’m just glad to be back playing tennis, having an opportunity to compete yet again in the big tournaments. I’ve missed it,” he said at Melbourne Park.
“It hasn’t been 100 percent yet healed. But right now it’s at the level where I can compete, and every day is getting better.”
“Throughout the tournament, I don’t know how it’s going to behave. Even if it’s 100 percent healed, after six months of no competition, you never know how you’re going to react.”
Djokovic went on to say that his spirit has never wavered despite his lengthy absence and still believes he can battle against the very best.
“I still know what I’m capable of, and I believe in my own abilities to win against the best players in the world,” he added.
“I know that if I get myself to the desired level of performance – mental and physical – that I can actually have a good chance to go far in the tournament.
“Now, whether my approach is different to this year’s Australian Open to other previous years, probably yes. It’s different circumstances. But it is exciting. Honestly, it’s a good place to be.”
The 30-year-old has previously said he could still be playing for another 10 years before he retires, and that is the plan as long as he still has the passion for tennis.
“I love this sport, I really do. As I said, I’ve been quite content with my body, mind, spirit so far throughout my career,” he said.
“The fire, passion, and love for the sport still burns inside. I have great support from my family and close ones and people around the world. I do feel young inside, you know.”
Djokovic kicks off his Australian Open campaign against American Donald Young.
Latest
-
Kevin Palmer
Britain’s strength in depth in doubles highlights quality of structure
British tennis may be wondering who can replace Andy Murray, but they have a very different story to tell in the doubles arena.
-
Tennis News
Rafael Nadal pulls out of his next event due to ‘ongoing’ back problem
Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the ABN…
-
Tennis News
Lleyton Hewitt to be inducted into International Tennis Hall Of Fame
Former world No.1 Lleyton Hewitt is the latest player who will be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
-
Tennis Features
Five of the best men’s matches at the Australian Open featuring Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Rafael Nadal, and more
The matches that made us sit up and take note.
-
Australian Open
Five of the best women’s matches at Australian Open featuring Naomi Osaka vs Garbine Muguruza, and more
Five of the best women’s singles matches at the 2021 Aus Open.
-
WTA Tour
Ashleigh Barty laments giving away control to Danielle Collins as she suffers defeat in Adelaide
Early exit for defending champion Ashleigh Barty.
-
Australian Open
Toni Nadal believes the pressure got to Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final
Daniil Medvedev felt the heat.
-
Tennis News
Serena Williams still believes she can win another Grand Slam and has no plans to retire just yet, says her coach
Serena Williams not ready to quit.
-
Tennis News
Novak Djokovic’s father hits out at Western media over their negative portrayal of his son
Srdjan Djokovic slams Western media.
-
News
Andy Murray’s Montpellier run shortlived as he suffers first-round exit
Andy Murray went down in straight sets.