24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic shared his thoughts on a challenging phase in his career. The Serb has not won a match since the Miami Masters in March.
Q: The last few months have been tough for you. How are you navigating this new stage of your career?
A: This is a new chapter in my life. I`m trying to accept these new circumstances. I`m not accustomed to situations like two consecutive first-round exits [in Monte Carlo and Madrid]. I believe this hasn`t happened to me in the past 20 years. But I knew such a moment might eventually arrive.
It`s difficult for me to simply sit back and dwell on what I`ve achieved in my career. Of course, I am proud of it, but I still possess the drive to win the biggest titles, to contend for Grand Slam championships, and to be among the world`s top players. That`s why I am here in Geneva, striving to do everything correctly to continue winning trophies. My motivation remains strong.
However, during this transitional period, I need to understand how my body functions, and what steps are necessary to maintain health while being in optimal condition to display my best tennis at the `majors`. When I participate in competitions, I want to give my maximum effort, but Grand Slam tournaments continue to be the priority.
Q: How have you managed stress throughout your many years in the sport?
A: It`s an inherent part of our profession. As Billie Jean King famously said, pressure is a privilege. It signifies that what we do is important. I can always rely on the support of my loved ones. Without that, I wouldn`t be able to maintain the necessary balance. I know what it takes to win Slams, to stay at the top. It`s a significant responsibility. It`s no longer as effortless and straightforward as it was at the beginning of my career.
My life has transformed, certainly for the better. I feel I still possess the game required to be a contender for Grand Slam titles. This continues to be a major source of motivation for me. Naturally, I now experience more fluctuations – this has been noticeable over the past year and a half. Experiencing this is, of course, not very pleasant, but that is the reality – I must accept it. Perhaps I can no longer consistently play at the same high level. No, not `perhaps` – I definitely cannot. I am aware of that. But at the same time, I understand how to prioritize.
Rupert Hartwell