Novak Djokovic could only start the season with success. After all, even Sinner, who had had the chance to train with him, had explained how fit the Serbian phenom seemed to him. Bottom line: Djokovic returned to Australia after a nightmare 12 months, was well received and played some good tennis.
So the afternoon was decidedly productive given the circumstances. “Obviously it’s good to be back. I already won in Adelaide, in 2007, a long time ago, so it was an incredible feeling to play again in this city and on these courts.
It was also great to see my old coach, Petrovic. Seeing the stadium full for my first game was certainly a very pleasant surprise. I saw so much support, so much love. Obviously, this motivated me and allowed me to express myself better on the court with my game,” he explained.
And looking at the game, it’s clear that he limited himself to the bare minimum, given the few complications caused by Lestienne. “I managed to play well in the important moments, once I got the break I didn’t look back.
I also played very well in the second set.” A perfect afternoon, then… “Obviously, the first games of the season after the break are always difficult. You don’t know how you’re going to start. One hopes to be able to play as well as in training, but obviously the games are different.
I’m glad I did well. And I had a great reception, I couldn’t have hoped for a better start to the season,” he declared before giving more details. “Australia has treated me well in terms of tennis. The experience so far has been positive, everyone has welcomed me very well in all contexts.
I can only say thank you because I feel very good.”
Nole started very strong
Novak Djokovic dismissed any talk that he was focusing on the events that transpired last year. “There is no reason to focus on — what you focus on, you become.
If I focus on the negatives, that’s what I’ll attract, so I don’t want to do that. I don’t hold a grudge,” Djokovic said. “I am here to play tennis, to enjoy sports, and spread good energy. I was looking forward to it, because if I was not looking forward to coming to Australia, I wouldn’t be here.
I want to be here. I’m glad that I received so far the reception that I wished for. The overall experience up to this moment is very positive,” he added. “I don’t have any expectations. I just try to stay in the moment.
Now my focus is on here, on Adelaide, try to do well in this tournament. Obviously Melbourne, Grand Slam, it’s different,” he said. “Obviously so many players, both on the women and men’s side.”
