Novak Djokovic: 'Rafael Nadal is a very clear favorite on clay'
Novak Djokovic believes that Rafael Nadal will be the player to beat during the clay-court season. Speaking on Sunday at the Monte Carlo Masters, the Serb said: "I think Rafa always is a very clear favourite on any clay court in the world, and it doesn’t change. He’s still there. I mean, obviously depends how he’s feeling physically. You know, I have seen him play here, so he’s been here a few days. Seems like he’s fine. You know, if he’s physically fit, he’s definitely the No. 1 guy, you know, on this surface without a doubt. And then after him, it’s quite open. You know, I think [Alexander] Zverev has done very well on clay in the last few years. Dominic Thiem, of course. Roger is going to play, as well, this season. That’s great for tennis. I think it is pretty open. ‘Yes, I mean, for sure, beating Rafa in Roland Garros would be ‑ and he’s one of the ultimate challenges of the sport, as it is winning against Roger in Wimbledon, yeah. I have been fortunate to experience both, so, you know, it is quite a special feeling, because they have dominated those surfaces so much in their careers."
Djokovic looks forward to starting his campaign at the Monte Carlo Masters. The Serbian player said: “I can’t wait to step on the court, I’ve been training hard. Some top players have been here for a week practising. I had a great last six months of the season. And I had an amazing start this year. Indian Wells and Miami were so-so – I’ll try to pick that up and see how it goes on clay.”
from Tennis World USA http://bit.ly/2GmLEEX
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