Novak Djokovic on Andy Murray: He is truly a champion

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic has called three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray a real champion and described him as someone who is a perfect example of someone who leaves it all on the court. 

On Tuesday, former world No. 1 Murray recovered from two sets down to edge out Japanese Yoshihito Nishioka in a five-setter that lasted four hours and 38 minutes.

"I saw little bit of his match. I was not surprised with his fighting spirit and way he came back to win it because he has done it more than few times in his career," Djokovic said of Murray.

"He's truly a champion. He has a big heart. He's a real fighter, a great example of someone who leaves it all on the court. Being very determined, especially after everything he has been through in the last five years with his hip surgeries, a year and a half ago in Australia probably saying good-bye to tennis, then coming back, winning last week against Zverev, who is a top-10 player, winning a tournament in Belgium last year. I mean, it's really impressive.

"I truly, truly hope that he can stay healthy and that he can go on for a long time like this."

Djokovic feeling fine 

Djokovic kicked off the season restart with winning it all at the Cincinnati Masters after recovering from a set down in the final against Canadian Milos Raonic.

Djokovic then beat Damir Dzumhur and Kyle Edmund at the US Open to set up a third round meeting against Jan-Lennard Struff.

Djokovic is now 25-0 for the year as he aims to win his 18th Grand Slam at the US Open.

"I thought there's a lot of positives in the last couple weeks. Had plenty of match play on the court. I competed great, especially in the last couple of matches during the Cincinnati tournament. Those were very important wins I think mentally for me coming into US Open," Djokovic said.

"I don't feel tired. I don't feel like energy or recovery is going to be an issue or is an issue for me. In contrary, I actually feel very fit. I love playing best-of-five. I like my chances best-of-five on the center court of US Open against anybody in the world.

"Being experienced player and playing on a big stage for so many times, obviously part of the tour for 15 years, helps in these kind of particular situations.

"I'm just going to do what I know works best for me and hope for the best."

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/3h2R0Wm