Novak Djokovic Injury Update: After his defeat to Lorenzo Mussetti, Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic has said that his elbow is still not in an ideal shape ahead of his first match at Srpska Open. With not much time left for his preparations for the French Open 2023, the 22 time Grand Slam champ would like to his preparations on track after an following his early exit at the Monte Carlo Masters. Djokovic has a good record at Rome and Madrid winning at total of 8 titles there but his elbow injury could potentially derail his chances at Roland Garros which starts on May 28. Follow French Open 2023 Live Updates with InsideSport.IN
Novak Djokovic speaks on his elbow before his match at Srpska Open
🎙️ PRESS time for @DjokerNole 🇷🇸
🎾 R2 not against STAN but rather 🆚 Luca Van Assche 🙃 pic.twitter.com/2noJcNR8lS
— TRAVEL&Sp🎾rts (@travel__Sports) April 17, 2023
“My elbow is not in an ideal shape but good enough to be ready for the first match,” Djokovic told reporters.
“One of the good things in tennis is that you get new opportunity to prove your worth every week and take a step forward. I’ve turned over a new leaf.
“Naturally, I wasn’t satisfied with the result in Monte Carlo. But, ever since I landed, I’ve felt welcomed in Banja Luka, a lot of positive energy and positive emotions.”
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 don’t know much about the young French player,” Djokovic said.
“I thought Wawrinka would win the match. I saw (Van Assche) play but not for long, he is a real fighter, fast, it’s difficult to get past him. No one should be underestimated.”
Luca Van Assche on facing the world no.1
Luca Van Assche, ranked 87th in the world, said it was a privilege to play against Djokovic.
“Novak is a true champion. Not only in tennis but in sports in general,” he added. “It will be an incredible match. I know I’ll have to give my all to win.”
