‘My elbow is just not in a great form however ok to be prepared for the primary match.’
IMAGE: Novak Djokovic suffered a third-round defeat to Lorenzo Musetti in Monte Carlo final week, the 22-times Grand Slam champion’s serve damaged eight instances by the Italian. Photograph: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
Novak Djokovic says he’s nonetheless dealing with an elbow issue heading into this week’s Srpska Open because the Serb seems to be to get his French Open preparations again on observe following his early exit on the Monte Carlo Masters.
Djokovic suffered a third-round defeat to Lorenzo Musetti in Monte Carlo final week, the 22-times Grand Slam champion’s serve damaged eight instances by the Italian.
“My elbow is just not in a great form however ok to be prepared for the primary match,” Djokovic informed reporters.
“One of the nice issues in tennis is that you simply get new alternative to show your value each week and take a step ahead. I’ve turned over a brand new leaf.
“Naturally, I wasn’t happy with the end in Monte Carlo. But, ever since I landed, I’ve felt welcomed in Banja Luka, so much of optimistic power and optimistic feelings.”
Djokovic will face 18-year-old Luca Van Assche in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday after the Frenchman claimed a 1-6, 7-6(4), 6-4 victory over three-times Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka.
“I do not know a lot concerning the younger French participant,” Djokovic stated.
“I assumed Wawrinka would win the match. I noticed (Van Assche) play however not for lengthy, he’s an actual fighter, quick, it is troublesome to get previous him. No one must be underestimated.”
Van Assche, ranked 87th on this planet, stated it was a privilege to play towards Djokovic.
“Novak is a real champion. Not solely in tennis however in sports activities on the whole,” he added. “It might be an unimaginable match. I do know I’ll have to provide my all to win.”
The French Open, the second Grand Slam of the season, begins on May 28.
