Novak Djokovic started his run at the 2023 Australian Open very well. The Serbian champion, returning to Melbourne after last year’s events, easily beat the Spanish Roberto Carballes Baena losing only seven games. The former world number 1, a great favorite to win the final, conceded a paltry four points to his opponent throughout the third set.
Nole is hunting for his tenth seal in Melbourne Park, which would allow him to catch his eternal rival Rafael Nadal at 22 Grand Slams. We recall that the 35-year-old from Belgrade had to miss two Majors in 2022 due to his choice not to get vaccinated against the Coronavirus, which also cost him a lot in terms of image.
However, the ‘Djoker’ redeemed himself by winning his seventh Wimbledon and equaling his idol Pete Sampras. In an interview with ‘L’ Equipe’ these days, Mats Wilander praised Djokovic’s ability to take care of his body. Although he is 35 years old, the Serbian still conveys an incredible feeling of freshness.
Mats Wilander on Nole Djokovic
In the columns of the Team this morning, Mats Wilander focused on the Novak Djokovic’s case. The Swede’s theory is to explain that the advantage of having been deprived of competition for a time also prevented him from losing and therefore maintaining some confidence.
According to Mats, this unique experience is comparable to that of someone who has had a serious illness. He comes out stronger mentally. From a physical point of view, Mats also believes that the Serb has strengthened his talent in this area.
“Djoko does not have the physique of a 35-year-old guy, but of a 25-year-old. Better: he strengthened his legs. So he made his game stronger. He looks so young, so fresh, that no one scares him on any surface. There is only one exception: Nadal 100% on clay.” Novak Djokovic remains the clear favorite to win the 2023 Australian Open title, but Rafael Nadal is a close second, believes Djokovic’s PTPA co-founder and Canadian tennis star Vasek Pospisil.
“I hope he (Djokovic) wins it,” Pospisil told Stadium Astro. “I would consider him the favorite, absolutely. If you have to pick a favorite, it’s hard to pick someone else. Having said that, obviously there are so many great players and incredible talents put together for one week.
Obviously, just him being Rafa, clearly he’s got a great chance of winning as well, and it would have to be right up there. Right below Novak as favorite I would say,” the Canadian added.
