The World No.1 is ironically asked about the match he lost in Doha to Ivo Karlovic. As usual, the Serb takes a good laugh and is not afraid to answer.
“Karlovic is my nemesis, I have to talk to him before Doha next year (smiling). Apart from that tournament I always reached the finals in all other events. I couldn’t ask for a better finish sitting with this trophy next to me. For some reason, I played some of my best tennis after the US Open, in Asia and both Paris and London. I really have to thank my team for preparing me and allowing me to reach my best. Even after the Grand Slam season was over I still managed to play well, stay focused both mentally and physically. This season definitively stands out in my career. I can’t say I did expect it, but I am always asking myself the most”
What will be the toughest challenges for the World No.1 next year? Will Roland Garros still be the toughest of all?
“Roland Garros is always the biggest challenge I have for myself every year, but is not the only one. There are the Olympic games, which also require an adjustment to the schedule. We have to be honest, Slams and Olympics are the most important tournaments, but you can’t discredit the other tournaments. I will try to perform my best at the biggest events. Big challenges ahead, but right now all I want to think is about this few days of rest and then focus on the next season.”
The Serb analysed the final won against Federer. The Swiss few days before had put an end to the Serb’s 38-match indoor winning streak, beating Novak in straight sets.
“Roger likes things to happen fast, he likes to take the time away from his opponents. He is a very complete player, who is always going to push you hard. Today I managed to be more solid, served well when I needed it and put more returns on court compared to the round robin match against him. I forced him to play always one extra shot. His forehand is his best shot, the backhand is great too, maybe not as good as his forehand, but I could take advantage of a not great day for him on that shot. It worked well.”
The Serb has been serving incredibly well when he has needed it the most. Always a first serve on the break points, and a game won with 2 consecutive aces at 30-30.
“I give a lot of credit to my serve, especially today. When you play against the top guys, such an important occasion, you need to serve well and get some free points with that shot, otherwise you will spend twice as much energy running around the court. Over the years, the serve is one of the things I have improved the most, but I still think I can do better and that keeps me motivated.”
Soon after the final, Novak decided to share the special moment with his fans on Facebook with this post:
https://www.facebook.com/djokovic.official/?fref=ts
“I try to use social media as an inspiration and something positive. It has helped us to communicate better and network more. Also for us athletes it gets us close to our fans. Is the first time I have done something like that.”
The World No.1 also shares his take on the Davis Cup final.
“With Andy Murray in the team, is far to say that Great Britain is the favourite. To play aways makes a difference, the atmosphere is incredible and unique. You are inspired to play your best, playing for your country. I wish both teams all the best. Is going to be interesting. David Goffin has to play at a very high level to give its country a chance.”
The Serb has had incredible rivalries with Federer and Nadal. Could he pick one?
“It is hard to compare such great rivalries. In terms of matches played, maybe I would pick Nadal because we had the greatest battles, but it really is hard to pick.”
What is Novak most proud of in the season?
“I would pick Grand Slam wins over everything else. I played the best tennis of the season in China. Overall it has been close to perfection.”
Incredibly loved in his country, Serbia, Novak is asked if he would ever consider a career in politics.
“I try to emphasise the good side of Serbia, considering how we have been through a lot,, wars and bad press. I don’t see myself in politics right now. I can hardly do much more for my country without getting into politics, but I can try to represent it as best as I can. I follow politics, but I think sports should separate from that. I am not somebody who really knows a lot about politcs, but in my countru and in other countries right now it feels the political system isn’t really working and that is a reason why I don’t really want to get involved in it right now. We will see when tennis will be over.”
Can he overtake Federer and Nadal in the all-time record for most Grand Slam wins?
“I put myself in a good position, had great records that make me very satisfied and that I am proud of. I love the sport, I am passionate about it. I can’t predict the future, but what I can do is continue respecting the training regime and life style that I have, because that way to go I allowed myself to achieve what I have. I don’t chase anything though, I don’t have a sense of urgency. I live in the present.”
Finally, Novak had also one thought for Boris Becker, his coach who today turned 48.
“His birthday was an extra motivation for today. He is going through emotions off the court the same way he was when he was playing. He has made a great contribution to the team.”
