Novak Djokovic: I’m On Track To Peak At The French Open

Without a title on the year, Novak Djokovic is not panicking. The world No. 1 is the top seed at the Rome Masters and opens play Friday. It’s his first event since Monte Carlo after his skipped Madrid which he said was part of the plan.

Turning 37 in a few weeks, Djokovic says he’s healthy and ready.

“I had plenty of time to also rest and train,” Djokovic said Wednesday in Rome. “Had a good training block. I arrived here two days ago to get a hit on the center court, as well, obviously stay four or five days training before my first match with top players.

“I think I’m on a good route to peak at Roland Garros in Paris. Hopefully here in Rome I can play better than I did in Monte Carlo. That’s the wish, obviously, is always to go far.

“But let’s see. It’s a different concept now. It’s the first time that Rome and Madrid are almost two weeks’ events, like Indian Wells, Miami. It gives you I guess more time to recover between matches if you keep going in the tournament, which I think is useful for me.”

Despite going titleless this season, Djokovic has been making headlines off the court. The Serb has parted ways with coach Goran Ivanisevic and just split with his trainer Marco Panichi to reunite with Gebhard Gritsch. Nenad Zimonjic has been serving as his coach.

“I am working currently with a fitness coach that I worked with for many years,” Djokovic said. “It didn’t take much time to adapt to his program and approach. We know each other really well. That’s why I feel like we’re synchronized from the very beginning in terms of what we want to do, how we want to approach the program of training on and off the court. With Nenad of course, as well.

“I’m pleased with the way the last 10 days, 14 days went in terms of training, in terms of preparation and looking ahead to this tournament, but particularly Roland Garros, Wimbledon and Olympic Games. That’s the block for which we are preparing the most.”

The 6-time champion Djokovic will take on Corentin Moutet in his second round opener.

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