ATP Madrid: Novak Djokovic and the focus on the essentials
Novak Djokovic currently has a lot to do in his role as President of the Player Council. On the one hand there is the debate about Justin Gimelstob, on the other hand the differences with Roger Federer are not yet over. The Serbian actually only came to Madrid to play tennis.
by Nikolaus Fink
last edit: May 06, 2019, 09:15 pm
by Nikolaus Fink from Madrid
Roger Federer didn't feel the need to talk to Novak Djokovic about the future of the ATP tour these days. "At the moment, I have the feeling that there is no reason to argue with him," said the Swiss at his press conference before the tournament in Madrid. There were disagreements between the two superstars on the scene about who should play the role of ATP president in the future.
Federer and Rafael Nadal had committed to the current President Chris Kermode. This wish is probably mainly due to the pressure from Djokovic off the table, Kermode's contract will not be extended after the 2019 season. But even the Serbian dream candidate Justin Gimelstob will not take over.
"Wise decision"
The American said in a statement that he would resign his role on the ATP board and had to "earn" a place in tennis. Reason for resignation: Gimelstob had beaten his neighbor last Halloween night and sees himself as a great distraction and debilitation for the sport after his conviction .
It is unfortunate.
Novak Djokovic on the situation with Justin Gimelstob
Djokovic described Gimelstob's decision as "wise". "It is unfortunate because it has been the biggest asset for players in the past ten years," continued the world number one. In the press conference, little attention was paid to tennis player Novak Djokovic.
Kick-off against Taylor Fritz
The focus on the essentials also seems to have been lost somewhat with the 15-time Grand Slam winner himself. The Serb already emphasized this in Indian Wells and Miami, and there seems to be no improvement in Madrid either. With Taylor Fritz in the second round, an anything but easy task awaits the industry leader.
However, Djokovic let a few sentences elicit his current form: "In the past few months I may not have played the best tennis. But slowly it comes together and hopefully I can reveal my best tennis here." Djokovic will need it - preferably on Tuesday against Taylor Fritz.