Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis legend, has spoken about his recent defeat in the Italian Open in Rome, where he lost to the young Croatian talent Dino Ljubicic. The 20-year-old Croatian player proved to be a formidable opponent, leaving Djokovic reflecting on his current form.
"I can see clearly what I'm missing. I'm half a step behind. I'm certainly not where I want to be, to reach the highest level again and go far. But once you're here, you have to play. You have to start somewhere. I wanted to return to the court sooner after this injury, but I couldn't and I accept the situation as it is. I'm training hard, as much as my body allows," said Djokovic.
When asked if he was confident about being in good shape for the upcoming French Open, which begins in 16 days, Djokovic responded with a cautious "I don't know" and a hopeful smile, saying "I hope."
In the only other tournament Djokovic has competed in this year, he reached the final of the Australian Open, where he was defeated by Carlos Alcaraz.
