Novak Djokovic has admitted he is not participating in the prize money fight for Grand Slams but is adamant that he will fight for player’s rights.
The Serb was speaking at Roland Garros, where he is a three-time champion and is seeking for a fourth title in Paris.
The Grand Slams always mean more for Djokovic and the Serb once again re-enforced that he is prioritizing the Grand Slam events as doubts creep over his health, “Grand Slams are always my priority,” Djokovic was quoted by Jose Morgado as saying in his pre-tournament press conference at Roland Garros.
“I’m doing my best to be in good shape enough to play best of five sets for two weeks. Let’s see if that’s possible but I can’t wait to be out on court.”
Although Djokovic’s only clay court match has been an opening round defeat to Dino Prizmic in Rome, the Serb is still optimistic about his chances in Paris and spoke about Carlos Alcaraz’s absence, “I wanted to go to Rome and give it a go despite being far from ready to compete,” Djokovic stated.
“I needed at least that one match. The preparation has been positive in the last 10 days. So here I am! He is a two time defending champ. It’s a big blow for the tournament not to have him but that doesn’t change my approach to the tournament. My primary concern is my body. If I’m healthy trough out the tournament I also have a very good chance, like I showed in Australia.”
The 24-time Grand Slam champion can never be underestimated at Grand Slams but is clearly not the favourite in Paris.
That would be Jannik Sinner who has been utterly dominant on clay, winning every tournament he has played.
Speaking on the world number one Djokovic was in awe of what he has achieved so far on the red dirt, “It’s amazing. He is impressive on all surfaces,” Djokovic said.
“He has proven that he can be dominant on clay as well. Being one of the two guys that won all the Masters I know how difficult it is. He is going for the career slam as well here. Without Carlos here it increases his chances.”
Finally, the big topic has been off the court with some players protesting by limiting their time given to journalists over percentage of increase in prize money at Grand Slams.
Djokovic revealed he is not participating in the protest but will always fight for a better future for the players, “I was not part of the process, plan or decision making. So I’m not part of that at all and I can’t comment on that,” Djokovic acknowledged.
“What can I can keep doing is advocating for players, like I always did. Not only the top players. The lower ranked as well.”
Djokovic will begin his campaign on Sunday against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.
