Novak Djokovic is coming under some scrutiny for now deciding to lay low and ducking out of the Italian Open, in hope of being ready in time for Roland Garros.
The Serbian ace and his coach Andy Murray are now rolling the dice – with Djokovic now set to be handed the benefit of recovery… but denied the crucial element of tournament reps and experience.
After flopping in Madrid, many fans and pundits alike anticipated thag Djokovic would make the big announcement, especially given his post match comments.
“After you lose a match, you don’t feel good, but I’ve had a few of these this year where I lose in the first round, unfortunately,” said Djokovic after losing in straight sets against Matteo Arnaldi.
“Kind of new reality for me, I have to say. You know, trying to win a match or two, not really thinking about getting far in the tournament.
“It’s a completely different feeling from what I had in 20-plus years of professional tennis, so it’s kind of a challenge for me mentally to really face this kind of sensation on the court, going out early now regularly in the tournaments.
“I guess, the circle of life and the career (smiling), eventually it was going to happen.”