'A lot of the challenges around Novak Djokovic is that...', says TD

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The fight between Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal is going to continue for some time. The two eternal rivals are currently tied for the top of the all-time Grand Slam rankings, after the Serb won his 22nd major at the Australian Open. Despite a left hamstring injury, the 35-year-old Belgrade gritted his teeth and lifted his 10th title at Melbourne Park. On the other hand, it was not a good period for the Spaniard, who was knocked out in the second round in Australia and suffered an iliopsoas injury. The former world number 1 will definitely miss the tournaments in Doha and Dubai, while his presence in Indian Wells and Miami remains uncertain. It cannot be ruled out that we will see the Spaniard again on clay in Monte Carlo. His big goal is Roland Garros, where he will seek his 15th title. During a long interview with L'Equipe, Petar Popovich - Corentin Moutet's new coach - pointed out that Nadal and Djokovic are willing to do anything to win more Slams. "If it wasn't a Grand Slam, Novak Djokovic probably would have missed the Australian Open because of that left leg injury. As he is chasing the Grand Slam record, he took that risk and brought home the title. Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are aware that they have to make sacrifices to win the GOAT title," Popovich explained. "Nole knows that the Australian Open is the tournament in which he plays the best, the same thing happens to Rafa at Roland Garros. Last year he anesthetized his foot to play in Paris, which is his backyard. He would not have done the same to play Wimbledon. I think it is quite normal and I can assure you that they are not the only ones who do it."

Craig Tiley defends Nole Djokovic

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley has showered praise on Novak Djokovic after his triumph at the AO. “He’s so focused on everything he does, with every single minute of the day. That’s what he eats, what he drinks, when he does it, how he does it. There’s no breakdown or mental breakdown in anything that he does,” Tiley said. “A lot of the challenges around Novak is that he gets a bad rap. But at the end of the day, I don’t think anyone can question his athleticism. This guy had a three-centimetre tear in his hammy. I saw the scans. The doctors are going to tell you the truth,” Tiley said.

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/sOye9qa

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