Serbian tennis legend Novak Djokovic has set an example with his supreme fitness. The 36-year-old is still able to challenge the fresh blood on the Tour. However, Djokovic’s fitness seems to have taken a hit in the last few months, as the Serbian is struggling to match his older self. Former tennis star Justine Henin is worried about the same.
As Djokovic has not yet won any titles in the 2024 season, there are concerns about his fitness level. Henin feels that the 36-year-old is struggling a bit and also said that it is “disturbing to see Djokovic in this state.” Henin analyzed the 24-time Grand Slam champion’s campaign in Monte Carlo and pointed out the issues.
Justine Henin, Novak Djokovic (Images via Imago)
The Belgian star said that Djokovic’s pace was not up to par, and it was evident on a surface that demands even higher levels of physical fitness. Henin opined that Djokovic will have to bring out his best since clay-court tournaments are demanding.
It’s always a little surprising, almost disturbing, to see him in this state, but he needs this volume. He has had very little pace since the start of the year and on this surface, [he] will draw a lot more from his reserves, the rallies are longer.Justine Henin said about Novak Djokovic
However, Henin was happy that the Serbian was able to reach the semifinal and play some good matches at the start of the clay-court season.
And apparently, with the temperature associated with the surface, that’s a lot for players to manage. He is not at his best level but he is winning matches, gaining confidence. And we saw that this (reaching the semi-finals) really gave him a smile again.Justine Henin pointed out while talking to Eurosport.
Novak Djokovic admits it has been not a great season for him
Not just experts and fans, Novak Djokovic himself believes that the 2024 season has not been the best for him. The 36-year-old said that, as he is expected to win titles and has set high standards in the past 15 years, this season does not look great.
However, the 36-year-old rightly pointed out that he has only played three tournaments and has reached the semifinals in two of them. Djokovic also expressed his optimism about building on this start on clay and performing even better in the upcoming tournaments.
I'm used to really high standard in terms of expectations of the results, so not having a title is, maybe comparing to the last 15 years, not a great season at all. But I had semis of Australia, semis here. I only played three tournaments this year, so of course, you know, it's normal to expect that you have some seasons where you don't start well, and this is the one.Novak Djokovic said. (H/T: Eurosport)
Notably, Djokovic lost to Casper Ruud in the semifinal at the Monte Carlo Masters. This was the Serbian’s first defeat to the Norwegian in six matches. Also, at the Indian Wells Open, Djokovic was ousted by Luca Nardi in the third round. It is to be seen how long it takes before Djokovic lifts his first title of the season.
