MADRID: When world No.1 Novak Djokovic entered his pre-tournament press conference in Madrid, he knew the discussions would be more about what is happening off the court than on it.
Bidding to become only the second player to win the tournament for the third time after Rafael Nadal, the Serbian seeks success during what is a complex time in men’s tennis. The CEO of the ATP, Chris Kermode, will be removed from his position later this year following a vote conducted by the board. Meanwhile, former member Justin Gimelstob has resigned from his post after being caught up in a high-profile assault case.
“Under the circumstances, it was a wise decision from his side and it’s been a very hot topic in the last period. And it’s unfortunate because I think he has been probably the biggest asset that players had in the last ten-plus years that he’s been on the tour representing players.” Djokovic commented on Gimelstob’s departure.
“But at the same time, these are kind of unfortunate circumstances and he needs to go back and deal with that, deal with that case and try to find the right balance and the right state of mind before he eventually tries to come back.”
Besides sitting at the top of the rankings, Djokovic is also the president of the powerful player’s council. Leading to some to speculate that he was a driving force behind Kermode’s removal. It has been reported that the council voted for Kermode’s removal and passed that onto their representatives. However, the results of that vote have been kept secret and Djokovic has never publicly called for new leadership. Although he admits there is problem with the current structure.
Now Gimelstob has gone, some are wondering if Kermode’s position should be reconsidered. The American was one of those who voted for his removal. A situation that has been received with a cautious welcome from the Serbian.
“I actually think that technically he has the right to be in a ballot again. He has the right to be a candidate officially for another mandate. I don’t know whether he wants to do that or not. I haven’t spoken to him about it. But if this happens, yeah, why not.” He said.
“He’s someone that has been a president for quite a few years and knows the tour inside out. And it’s going to be a really important and interesting process for us of recruitment as well.”
Madrid calling
Amid the politics, it is hard to keep the focus on Djokovic’s on-court objectives. Later this month he will begin his bid to win a fourth consecutive grand slam title. Should he do that, it would be the second time of his career that Djokovic has held every grand title at the same time. Something that hasn’t been achieved by any other member of the big four.
Prior to Roland Garros, the attention is on Madrid. Coming into this week, he has won 15 out of 19 matches played this year. Highlighted by his Australian Open triumph. On the other hand, he has also experienced his blips. Reaching the quarter-finals at one out of the past three tournaments played.
“The conditions here are obviously different than any other clay court event. The altitude affects the play. The ball flies through the air quite quickly and it’s not easy to control the ball.” Djokovic said of Madrid.
“I haven’t been maybe playing my best in the last couple of months. But I’m slowly building and hopefully, I can manifest my best tennis here.” He added.
It could be argued that Djokovic should be considered a bigger favorite on the clay than Nadal at present. Given the recent below-par results of the Spaniard, who usually dominated this period of the tour. However, Djokovic isn’t getting drawn into the hype or debate.
“He’s always the No. 1 favorite to win any clay court event. It’s not any different here in Madrid. Actually, even more here in Madrid because he’s playing at home.” Djokovic evaluated.
Djokovic will open up his Madrid bid on Tuesday. He currently has a win-loss record of 24-8 in the Spanish capital. Winning a total of $2,730,559 in prize money prior to this year.
