Novak Djokovic has always been one of the fittest, if not the fittest player on the tennis tour. However, this year, the Serbian appears to be physically not always at his best. This is causing concern for former world-class player Justine Henin.
The clay season is by far the most important in the tennis calendar this year, as it not only features the French Open but also the Olympic Games tournament in the summer.
Many players are currently focusing more on their clay-court game to be competitive at the peak of the season.
The Olympic tennis tournament is also of enormous significance for Novak Djokovic, as the gold medal is the only major trophy still missing from his collection. The games in Paris are likely his last chance to achieve this dream.
However, the current state of the Serbian player is concerning, as his recent performance at the ATP tournament in Monaco showed him to be anything but in top form. This was also noted by former women’s world number one, Justine Henin.
Novak Djokovic’s condition “surprising”
“It’s always a bit surprising, almost disturbing, to see him in this condition,” Henin said to Eurosport after Djokovic’s semifinal loss in Monaco.
The Serbian has “very little” rhythm this season, “especially on clay,” Henin analyzed. “He will need much more from his reserves because the rallies are longer.”
Additionally, the typically higher temperatures at clay court tournaments pose a challenge. “Players have to manage a lot,” described the former world-class player.
Novak Djokovic “not at his best level”
In her eyes, Djokovic is currently “not at his best level.” Nonetheless, he is still winning matches: “That gives him confidence. We’ve seen it here [in Monaco]. Reaching the semifinal has brought back his smile.”
Djokovic himself also commented similarly after his semifinal exit. “I’ve only played three tournaments this year. It’s also completely normal to have seasons where you don’t start well. And this [season] is one of those.”
He can build on his performance in Monaco, the Serbian said: “And in the next tournaments, I hope to play even better.”
