SUMMARY
- Djokovic's unexpected defeat to Sinner at the AO 2024 sparked speculation, but has been countered by Coach Ivanisevic's insights.
- Djokovic redirects his focus to the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, after taking a month-long break to regroup.
The tennis world was left in shock after Novak Djokovic’s surprising loss to Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open in 2024. Djokovic, a ten-time champion at the Grand Slam down under, had not lost a match at the Australian Open in the last six years, which raised eyebrows about the reasons for his loss from the tennis fans.
However, Djokovic’s coach, Goran Ivanisevic, recently offered insights into the Serbian’s unexpected defeat, providing a more detailed perspective on the Serbian icon’s performance in the tournament that somehow contradicted the earlier reason given
Goran Ivanisevic asserted that Djokovic was “100% healthy” during his match against Sinner, despite the previous claims that he was unwell before the match. However, he clarified that Djokovic was not feeling entirely himself throughout the tournament. This was evident starting from the first match itself, where Novak Djokovic struggled against qualifier Dino Prizmic in the opening round, winning in four tough sets.
🇦🇺🇷🇸 Novak Djokovic’s coach Goran Ivansevic says that Djokovic was ‘100% healthy’ vs Sinner at the Australian Open, even if he wasn’t feeling entirely himself during the tournament:
“Sooner or later he had to lose, we all knew that.
It’s just a shame that it happened this… pic.twitter.com/li1G6rnlNh
— Olly 🎾🇬🇧 (@Olly_Tennis_) February 5, 2024
Ivanisevic further added, “Sooner or later he had to lose…but against Sinner, if you’re not 100%, you have little chance. And even when you’re at 100%, you can still lose.” The coach acknowledged that the entire Australian Open seemed off for Djokovic.
Contrary to pre-tournament rumors about Djokovic’s minor wrist issues, which could be a reason for his loss, Ivanisevic clarified, “No, nothing bothered him, he was healthy, but it just didn’t work out.” The coach reconciled to the fact that, after all, his ward was still a human in flesh and blood who could lose an important match, but was glad that it happened against Sinner, who in his mind is a very complete player.
The recent revelation from the coach regarding Djokovic’s loss at the Australian Open goes beyond the initial speculation surrounding health concerns. It highlights the unpredictable nature of tennis, showing that even the greatest players can experience defeat on the sport’s grandest stages.
Novak Djokovic shifts focus to ATP 1000 after Australian Open defeat
After his Australian Open 2024 journey, Novak Djokovic’s focus now shifts towards his upcoming endeavors. Following his loss to Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals, Djokovic has taken a month-long break to regroup and recharge his batteries.
Djokovic is gearing up for the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. This ATP Masters 1000 event, scheduled from March 6th to 17th at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, marks Djokovic’s return to the tournament since 2019, after a gap of 5 years.
🚨🇺🇸
Novak Djokovic confirmed to be playing Indian Wells in March, his first appearance there in 5 years 🇷🇸 pic.twitter.com/UvNavbq4Pg
— Olly 🎾🇬🇧 (@Olly_Tennis_) February 4, 2024
Despite his recent setback, Novak Djokovic remains determined to make a strong showing at Indian Wells. Having won the event five times in the past, Djokovic is no stranger to success on the California courts. However, his previous three appearances at Indian Wells have been less than stellar, with early exits in 2017, 2018, and 2019.
However, he has opted out of the ATP 500 Dubai Tennis Championships in February, an event he has previously dominated. This strategic move underlines his commitment to regaining his top form, solidifying his position at the top of men’s tennis.