Teenager Novak Djokovic: 'I believe I can fulfill my goal and reach the top-10..'

The 19-year-old Novak Djokovic was one of the players to beat in early 2007, winning the title in Adelaide and reaching the Australian Open fourth round, losing to Roger Federer in straight sets. After the Rotterdam semi-final and the Dubai quarter-final, Novak headed to the season's first Masters 1000 event in Indian Wells as world no. 13, standing as one of the favorites and playing well in the opening four rounds to oust all the opponents in straight sets. Novak lost serve three times against Robby Ginepri, beating the American 6-4, 6-4 and raising his level to drop only seven games versus Evgeny Korolev and Julien Benneteau.

In the quarters, Djokovic took down David Ferrer 6-3, 6-4 in an hour and 17 minutes for the first Masters 1000 semi-final, dropping 17 points in ten service games and suffering one break of serve. On the other hand, Novak earned three breaks to control the scoreboard and find himself in the last four, where he would face Andy Murray. After the match, Novak Djokovic said he believes he could reach the top-10 in the rest of the season, seeking the title in Indian Wells after playing on a high level. 

Novak Djokovic reached the first Masters 1000 semi-final in Indian Wells 2007.

"I think I have proved myself as one of the title favorites, both with my results this season and here in Indian Wells. I believe I can fulfill my goal and reach the top-10 this year; I don't rush anything or chase records and results; everything will come with time and experience. I have to stay focused on my tennis and make further improvements. It was warm out there, but I felt good physically. I didn't play that well against Robby Ginepri in the first match, but the next three clashes were excellent. Vajda and I started working together nine months ago; he gave me the right advice and improved my game a lot.

When you are in the top-20, you don't have to work on something special but rather some small things you can't notice by yourself and the mental side of the game. That's why it's important to have a coach. Also, Mark Woodforde is here with us in Indian Wells and Miami. He is the Adelaide tournament director, where I won the title in January; Marian and I spoke to him, and he is with us as a support. I'm trying to improve my serve&volley with him; I should use my opportunities more often and rush to the net, as I have powerful groundstrokes and the abilities to open the court," Novak Djokovic said.

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/3tOXRt6