Australia Open 2023: Novak Djokovic,ays "I want to be the best", ahead on return to Australia Open

Australia Open 2023: Nine-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic is in pursuit of greatness. Returning to Australia for the first time since 2021, the Serbian is motivated more than ever to win his career’s 22nd Grand Slam title at Melbourne. Another victory in the major for the 36-year old will make him draw level with rival Rafael Nadal, who has 22 Grand Slam titles to his name. Djokovic eyes the big prize and in his own words admitted he wants to be the best in the world ahead of the tournament. The year’s first Grand Slam is set to begin on 16th January 2023. Follow Australia Open 2023 LIVE updates on InsideSport.IN

Australia Open 2023: Upbeat Novak Djokovic hungry for success at Melbourne, says “I want to be the best”, ahead on return to Australia Open

Also Read: Australian Open 2023: Novak Djokovic relishing his Down Under return, says deportation drama in 2022 paved way to success, Follow AO 2023 LIVE updates

That was one FUN chapter in the @DjokerNole and @NickKyrgios AO story ✌️

Thanks for a great night! #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/TxzfI2cAA0

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 13, 2023

Djokovic enters the tournament as the fourth seed. The Serbian is an overwhelming favourite for the title as he is in great form at the moment. Having already etched his name among the greats in the spot, the 36-year old is still hungry to win more.

Speaking ahead of his Australian Open return, he said, “You have four Slams that historically have been the biggest events in our sport. That’s why I keep on playing professional tennis, because I want to be the best, I want to win the biggest tournaments in the world.”

“It’s also one of the biggest reasons why I was really looking forward to come back to Australia: because of my record here. I really love playing in Rod Laver Arena, particularly night sessions. I’ve had plenty of success that hopefully can continue this year,” he said during the press meet on Saturday, 14th January.

Djokovic was aiming to lift his fourth straight Australian Open title in 2022. However he was banned from entering the country due to his non-vaccination stance. He has however put that behind and is eager to make a solid comeback in his favourite tournament.

Australia Open 2023: Upbeat Novak Djokovic hungry for success at Melbourne, says “I want to be the best”, ahead on return to Australia Open

He is all set to begin his career’s 18th Australian Open campaign on 16th January. He is scheduled to face Spain’s Roberto Carballes Baena in the first round. Djokovic is upbeat about his current form as he is coming off after winning the Adelaide International title.

“I’m in very good shape. I ended the year in the best possible way and continued that form in Adelaide. I like the way I played there. I beat some really good players, especially in the last few matches of the tournament.”

“I’m very grateful for the kind of energy and reception and love and support I got last night.”

9x champion @DjokerNole talks about his return to Melbourne Park. #AusOpen • #AO2023 pic.twitter.com/edzMF8RK88

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 14, 2023

However he has an injury concern. At Adelaide, he tweaked his hamstring and needed medical attention during the semifinal contest against Daniil Medvdedev. He however showed no big discomfort and went on to win the final. The injury appeared to have flared up during his first practice session at Melbourne as he had to cut short his session.

The Serbian however sounded optimistic. “It’s hopefully not [of] major concern. So far I’ve been able to train, compete and play points, practice sets. So that’s a positive sign. Hopefully it won’t cause an issue for me then.”

He was warmly received by a packed crowd at Rod Laver Arena on Friday night during a practice match against home hero Nick Kyrgios. A rousing reception is expected for Djokovic yet again when he makes it to the court on Tuesday, 17th January 2023.

Follow Australian Open 2023 Updates With InsideSports.IN.

Follow InsideSport on GOOGLE NEWS