Novak Djokovic will be chasing his first title in Monte Carlo-Masters, this week, since the Paris 2024 gold.
He was in top form at the Miami Open 2025 before falling to Jakub Mensik in the title match. The Serbian great was asked about his expectations in Monte Carlo-Masters.
“There is no doubt that it has become more difficult throughout my career but the performances in Miami, when I am playing that way, it gives me more inspiration to keep going,” Djokovic was quoted as saying by ATP.
“It just feels great on the court when you are striking the ball well and winning matches. Obviously when you start losing early you have more questions and inner voices, which are bringing doubts about whether you should keep going.
“I am glad in Miami I found that joy on the court and performance levels, so let’s see if I can carry that into clay. It is a different surface and I have not had much time to get used to this tournament so my expectations are not that high.”
It was a bitter-sweet ending in the Miami Open since he missed the title. However, reflecting on his game, he said that it was a great encouragement.
“We spoke about Miami. A bit of a bitter feeling in the end to lose the final, but it was high-quality from me. Served great, played well. I was just a bit unlucky in the final — two tie-breaks — but he was better. That is all,” Djokovic said. “It gives me a great deal of encouragement and positivity reflecting on my game and how I played in Miami.”
The Serbian had teamed up with Andy Murray for the Australian Open, Indian Wells and Miami. However, the Brit, is not in Miami this week.
“It was never part of the agreement to work with Andy this week,” Djokovic said. “I was thinking about who I wanted anyone apart from my fitness coach and physio and my brother Marko was able to join me so that helps me on a different level emotionally. Have some time with my brother and spend some time with him on the road.”
The third seeded is likely to face-off Stan Wawarinka in his opening Monte Carlo-Masters match.
“People talk about my age, but what about him? Still going strong,” Djokovic said. “I love Stan, he is a great guy and a champion that has been underestimated with everything he has achieved. Three Slams, Davis Cup, Olympic Gold. A legend of the game and truly inspiring.”