The year 2022 had not brought great joy to Novak Djokovic before the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. Complicated by his decision not to get vaccinated against the Coronavirus, the world number 1 was unable to defend his title at the Australian Open.
The Serbian star was forced to watch helplessly as rival Rafael Nadal triumphed at Melbourne Park. The Spaniard thus surpassed Roger Federer and Djokovic himself in the classification of all Majors.
The strict American regulations forced Novak to also skip the Masters 1000 in Indian Wells and Miami. It took some time for Djokovic to get the automatisms right, but the 34-year-old Serb has never lost confidence in his path.
After the final in Belgrade and the semi-final in Madrid, the 20-time Slam champion won for the sixth time in his career at the Foro Italico in Rome. In the microphones of Tennis Channel, Paul Annacone analyzed in detail the prospects of Novak, who will be called to defend his title in Paris.
Annacone praises Novak Djokovic
“Despite the semi-final loss to Carlos Alcaraz in Madrid, Novak Djokovic could be seen to be in great form from his first starts of the season” – said Annacone.
“We are talking about one of the greatest in history, as well as an absolute icon of modern sport. Nole has been confident in his evolution and will arrive at Roland Garros close to 100% of his form.
In my opinion, Rafael Nadal is still the favorite if he feels well. Djokovic is the second, while the third is Carlos Alcaraz. The 19-year-old from Murcia has charmed everyone at the start of the season, but he is still inexperienced at certain stages,” added Paul.
The American also spoke about Rafa: “Nadal’s mind is the closest thing to a computer. I think he is the best player in history from a tactical point of view, it is very rare that he makes mistakes in decisive moments. We will see what conditions will be at Roland Garros”
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