Novak Djokovic says he’s “embarrassed” that his expectations for this 12 months’s French Open had been so low.
The world primary, a file 24-time Grand Slam winner and defending champion in Paris, has endured a tumultuous preparation for this 12 months’s occasion.
The 37-year-old, who has not received a title all season and even reached the ultimate, admitted forward of Tuesday’s first-round tie in opposition to Pierre-Hugues Herbert that he didn’t wish to open “Pandora’s Field” “Speaking about his inconsistent efficiency.
Please use Chrome browser for a extra handy video participant
Novak Djokovic misplaced to Tomas Machak 4-6 6-0 1-6 within the semifinals of the Geneva Open final week.
When requested about his emotions about collaborating within the French Open this 12 months, Djokovic responded with “low expectations, however excessive hopes.”
“It is onerous to speak about. It is very subjective. I nearly really feel a bit embarrassed to say what I count on.
“For me, something aside from a title is unsatisfactory and has at all times been that approach. I do know which will sound conceited to lots of people, however I believe I’ve a profession to again it up.
“There’s all types of stuff that is occurred over the previous few months that I do not wish to get entangled in. I hope you perceive that. It is simply that I do not wish to open Pandora’s field and speak about these issues.”
Please use Chrome browser for a extra handy video participant
Novak Djokovic was hit within the head with a bottle whereas signing autographs on the Italian Open.
Nonetheless, Djokovic has discovered a approach to win Grand Slams earlier than when the chances gave the impression to be stacked in opposition to him, warning: “I do know what I am able to.
“Particularly within the Grand Slams, I normally play my greatest tennis, not less than my purpose is at all times to play my greatest tennis, and I have been in a position to do this for many of my profession, so it is That is the purpose.
“I have been saying for a very long time that so far as clay is anxious, I wish to attain the highest in Paris, Roland Garros.
“I had an important 12 months final 12 months, particularly at Roland Garros, and hopefully I can have a great match.”
On Tuesday, Djokovic will begin his bid for the No. 25 Grand Slam title in opposition to French wild card Herbert.
Please use Chrome browser for a extra handy video participant
Novak Djokovic discusses his priorities for this 12 months’s match and the way he hopes to see a “match” Rafa Nadal competing on this summer season’s Grand Slams.
The way to comply with French Open on Sky Sports activities
You may comply with Roland Garros day-after-day at Skysports.com and the Sky Sports activities app.
In addition to protection from Paris, our group of consultants will analyze the draw, fixture checklist and match order.
What’s coming to Sky Sports activities Tennis?
Please use Chrome browser for a extra handy video participant
Uncover all of the methods to look at tennis on Sky Sports activities, together with the US Open, ATP and WTA Excursions.
Within the build-up to Wimbledon, the third Grand Slam in 2024, you’ll be able to watch all of tennis’s best stars compete sky sports activities dwell After they play all through the grass court docket season.
- Stuttgart Open (ATP 250, with Andy Murray) – June 10-16
- Rosmalen Open (ATP/WTA 250) – June 10-16
Watch WTA and ATP Tour occasions all through 2024 on Sky Sports activities Tennis. Watch Sky Sports activities Tennis and extra with a NOW Sports activities Month-to-month Membership. No contract, cancel anytime.
