Novak Djokovic definitely raised his game after a discreet performance in his debut on the pitch of the All England Club. The Serbian champion played an excellent match and defeated Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-1, 6-4, 6-2. The one from Belgrade only conceded one break point -in the last game of the match- and always worried his rival on the return, finding great depth with both the forehand and the backhand.
Djokovic will face his compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic, who has expelled Alejandro Tabilo from the tournament, in the third round. “The quality of tennis that I have expressed today has been really high. Much better than the level expressed in the first round match.
I knew I had to start the game well today because they are a dangerous opponent. He has a great serve and a great forehand. I didn’t want to give him too much time. I have answered well. My performance was really satisfying. Did I increase the intensity because I was playing against an Australian? My intensity is always the same in every match.
I tried to follow my tactics and do what I had to do to win. I didn’t have any extra motivation or increased desire to win because I was playing against an Australian tennis player. Thanasi is a good guy and we have a very good relationship.
On the pitch, of course, we always want to win. Today there was a lot of respect and that is the most important thing. I don’t have any hard feelings towards the Australians “Djokovic also talked about the work he does during the change of sides.
“For each player it is different.”
Djokovic is aiming for his 21st Major win
Novak Djokovic is aiming for his 21st Major win at Wimbledon, and his third SW19 title in a row. “Of course, it is [more than just numbers and records].
You don’t think about numbers when you start playing tennis. I mean, 99% of children when they grab a tennis racquet, they have dreams, they have love and passion for the game. That’s the most important thing,” Novak Djokovic said.
“That’s the driving force whenever the going gets tough, whenever you’re down yourself or things are not as smooth and easy as you would like them to be, going back to that inner child you know and remembering why you start playing this sport.
Of course, anything else that you manage to achieve and live your dreams is a bonus, so I’m really blessed to be here now,” he added.
