World No 5 Novak Djokovic acknowledges that pretty much all top-10 players are contenders to win the Australian Open title. Djokovic, a 21-time Grand Slam champion, is regarded as the No 1 favorite to win this year’s Australian Open title.
In an interview with Sasa Ozmo of Tennis Majors, Djokovic was asked to name his biggest threats at the Australian Open. “All the players from the top are the biggest rivals, that is always the case. Tsitsipas, Sinner, Zverev, of course Medvedev and Nadal, who is a veteran just like me.
When it comes to younger players, it is obvious that Carlos Alcaraz, who sadly won’t be playing in Melbourne, and Holger Rune are frontrunners. They are both 19 years old, and Alcaraz is deservedly No 1, he had a fantastic year.
At this moment in time, I think it is even more interesting for people to watch Grand Slams – when we are all there and healthy, it is dramatic and fascinating to follow who will claim the trophy,” Djokovic told Tennis Majors.
Djokovic drew Roberto Carballes Baena in the first round
Djokovic, a record nine-time Australian Open champion, will be kicking off his campaign at Melbourne Park by playing 75th-ranked Carballes Baena. But there is one small issue for Djokovic going into the Australian Open – he is dealing with a hamstring issue.
Last week, Djokovic sustained a hamstring injury en route to winning Adelaide. Earlier this week, Djokovic finished his Australian Open practice early because of the injury. “It’s the hamstring that I had problems with in Adelaide last week.
I just felt it pulling and I didn’t want to risk anything worse. I played a set and apologised to him [Medvedev] and he was understanding. I just want to avoid any bigger scares before the Australian Open,” Djokovic told 9News Melbourne.
In 2021, Djokovic sustained an abdominal tear during his third round match at the Australian Open but still went on to win the title.
