the serbian Novak Djokovicnumber two in the world, made sure it was Friday he did not know “how many ‘grandes'” were left and that at the age of 36 he lives every tournament at this level “as if it were his last”, although he still has no idea how long he will continue to compete, in the press conference before his return to the US Open .
“The ‘big ones’ are the most important goals I have in my career right now. I always talk about it, that I want to increase my level to ‘big’. I don’t know how many ‘grandes’ I have left. I am constantly competing. I don’t have a final point in mind at the moment,” Djokovic said at media day.
“I also understand that things are different when you are 36 years old, so I have to appreciate the present more, treat each ‘big’ as if it were the last in terms of commitment and performance. I see every ‘big’ as a golden opportunity to make history. It means a lot,” he added.
The Serbian did not compete in New York last year because of his refusal to be vaccinated against the coronavirus and, in 2021, he lost in the final against the Russian Daniil Medvedev, which prevented him from completing a big ‘poker’ in that season.
“It’s been two years since I last played here. and I lost in the final with Medvedev, for the fourth ‘big’ in a year. I didn’t play well that day. But the connection and the love that I received from the people at that game and at the ceremony is something that I continue to carry in my heart,” he said.
Nole acknowledged that the US Open was the “big one” where he had the worst balance between wins and losses (he won 3 and lost 6), but said that the Arthur Ashe track was still the most “electric ” for him.
“My first feeling was excited to be back because it’s the biggest stadium in our sport, and without a doubt the most fun, electric and exciting atmosphere. I’m excited to play on opening night, Monday, to get back in front of probably the loudest crowd in the game.”
The Serbian arrives in New York after winning an epic final at the Cincinnati Masters 1,000 against Spanish Carlos Alcaraz, world number one and defending champion at Flushing Meadows.
In the Cincinnati final, Djokovic came from a set back to win in three hours and 49 minutes.
“Carlos is number one in the world. He’s been one of the best players in the world for the last two years. My team is always reviewing it, just like every other team. I know the same thing happens to me, maybe,” he said.
“I’m sure your team watches my games. My team watches their games, it’s not a secret. But working on the court with Alcaraz, that only happens if I can play against him,” he added.
Source: La Verdad
I’m Robert Maynard, and I am a passionate journalist with experience in sports writing. For the last few years, I have been writing for Today Times Live. My main focus has been on sports-related stories and features. With my strong background in journalism and extensive knowledge of the industry, I am able to provide readers with well-crafted pieces that are both informative and engaging.