PARIS — Novak Djokovic has made a telling admission about his French Open chances after splitting with longtime coach Goran Ivanisevic, revealing his hunger for more Grand Slam titles remains undiminished despite recent struggles. The 24-time Major winner, who turns 37 this month, acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized his unwavering motivation to add to his historic tally.
Djokovic's comments came after his practice session with Andy Murray at Roland Garros, where the pair reunited on court for the first time since their 2017 rivalry peak. "Every Grand Slam is a new opportunity, a new chapter," Djokovic told reporters. "The fire still burns bright."
The Ivanisevic Split and Its Implications
The Serbian champion's decision to part ways with Ivanisevic in March raised eyebrows across the tennis world. Their partnership yielded 12 Grand Slam titles, but Djokovic suggested the change was necessary: "Sometimes you need fresh energy, new perspectives. Goran gave me incredible years, but evolution never stops."
Analysts note several key factors in Djokovic's current situation:
- A 2024 season without titles before Rome
- Early exits at Australian Open and Monte Carlo
- Ongoing adjustments to new coaching setup
French Open Preparation and Physical Condition
Djokovic arrives in Paris without his usual clay-court momentum, having skipped Madrid before a semifinal run in Rome. "The body feels good, which is most important at this stage," he said, dismissing concerns about his recent bottle-to-head incident in Rome.
The Murray Practice Session
The two-hour hit with Murray provided intriguing insights. Observers noted:
- Djokovic's baseline consistency remains elite
- Improved net approaches compared to early season
- Noticeable focus on drop shots and angles
The Grand Slam Motivation
Djokovic was particularly candid about his enduring drive: "When I wake up, it's not about money or fame. It's about that feeling when you hold the trophy and know you've conquered the best." He currently leads the men's Grand Slam race with 24 titles, two ahead of Rafael Nadal.
The Serbian star outlined his remaining goals:
- Surpass Margaret Court's all-time record (24 Slams)
- Win Olympic gold in Paris this summer
French Open Draw Analysis
As third seed, Djokovic could face:
- Potential R3 clash with Musetti
- Quarterfinal against Ruud or Tsitsipas
The Age Factor
At 36, Djokovic would become the oldest French Open champion in the Open Era if he triumphs. "Age is just a number until it's not," he joked, before turning serious: "But I've adapted my preparation, my schedule, everything to maximize longevity."
His team has implemented specific changes:
- Reduced tournament schedule
- Increased recovery periods
Conclusion: The Champion's Mindset
Despite the challenges, Djokovic's self-belief shines through. "I know what I'm capable of at Roland Garros," he stated, referencing his three previous titles there. "The court, the atmosphere - it brings out my best tennis."
With the French Open beginning Sunday, all eyes will be on whether the Serbian can overcome his rocky season start. As he put it: "Pressure is a privilege. I've earned the right to feel it."