According to Annabel Croft, the pressure on Novak Djokovic to achieve his monumental goals – securing a 100th ATP Tour title and a record 25th Grand Slam – is becoming increasingly challenging for him.
Djokovic has withdrawn from the upcoming Italian Open in Rome following a series of three losses, including his recent defeat by Matteo Arnaldi at the Madrid Open.
After the match against Arnaldi, the 37-year-old Serbian commented on adapting to a `new reality` where he`s simply content with winning `a match or two`.
He risks heading into the French Open without any victories on clay since his significant win over Carlos Alcaraz in the Olympic final last summer.
Highlights of Djokovic`s match with Matteo Arnaldi in the second round of the Madrid Open.
Despite playing a busier schedule this season compared to last, when he fell short of the 25th Grand Slam record, Djokovic has struggled to find consistent form. He has been defeated in his opening match in four of his last five tournaments.
Former British No 1, Annabel Croft, noted that Djokovic`s primary focus remains on increasing his Grand Slam tally to surpass Margaret Court and solidify his status as the greatest. However, she feels this pursuit is getting tougher, observing that he appears `a bit flat` on court.
Croft elaborated that he seems unable to rediscover his winning formula. Last year, he didn`t win a major, with titles split between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. She highlighted his surprising losses to lower-ranked players like Alejandro Tabilo in Monte-Carlo and Matteo Arnaldi, suggesting a loss of confidence.
She recalled his last standout performance being against Alcaraz in Australia (where he won to reach the semi-finals). Since withdrawing after a demanding match against Alexander Zverev, she believes he hasn`t been the same. Croft expressed uncertainty about the cause – whether it`s distractions, unhappiness, or lost confidence – but stated his current condition doesn`t look promising for the French Open, especially having withdrawn from Rome.
Croft concluded that he isn`t in good form and is unsure if he can improve sufficiently before the French Open.
Is Motivation a Key Factor for Djokovic?
Djokovic discusses what he has been working on with coach Andy Murray ahead of the Madrid Open.
The Serbian player has stated that his main objective while working with coach Andy Murray is to peak for the French Open and Wimbledon.
He began a trial partnership with Murray, who retired from playing in August, at the Australian Open in January.
While still aspiring to win his 100th career title, joining Jimmy Connors (109) and Roger Federer (103) in the record books, Djokovic admits that based on recent performances, his priority is achieving peak form for the Grand Slams.
Colin Fleming commented that Djokovic retains an inner belief in his ability to perform at his best when it matters most – the Grand Slams, particularly as he aims for his 25th title. Fleming felt Djokovic was not mentally prepared for the competition in Madrid, appearing `flat` and seemingly indifferent to his loss. He speculated that Djokovic withdrew from Rome specifically to focus on preparing his mindset for Roland-Garros.
Fleming added that Djokovic doesn`t necessarily need to be capable of defeating players like Alcaraz and Sinner in the early rounds in Paris. He is renowned for mastering the two-week tournament format, gradually building his way into form through the initial matches. Fleming believes Djokovic still trusts his ability to do this.
Fleming concluded that despite the current situation not being ideal, he wouldn`t dismiss Djokovic`s chances for either his 25th Grand Slam or his 100th tour title, emphasizing that securing the 25th major is clearly his primary focus.
Croft: It Won`t Get Easier for Djokovic
Highlights of Jakub Mensik against Djokovic in the Miami Open final.
Djokovic will celebrate his 38th birthday on May 22. He is seeking his fourth title at Roland-Garros. He might not secure a top-four seed this year, which could potentially lead to a challenging quarter-final match-up.
Croft remarked that Djokovic`s body has shown signs of wear and tear. At 37, nearly 38, the path ahead is unlikely to become easier. She views the challenges as very difficult and uphill. Croft also suggested that his `aura` has diminished, noting that many opponents now step onto the court believing they have a realistic chance against him because his performance isn`t at its peak.
Croft contrasted this with the past, when players were often worried about winning just a few games against him. Now, they feel they can win matches, which she believes makes the task significantly harder for Djokovic.
