The precarious physical conditions displayed by Novak Djokovic in Australia have caused some concern among his fans, media and insiders. Especially in the semifinal lost against Jannik Sinner, the Serbian champion suffered physically from his opponent, as has rarely happened during his career. Thanks to the young Italian, capable of playing extraordinary tennis but, as is rumored in Serbia, Nole would have suffered physical problems (in particular flu) even before leaving for Melbourne.
In a recent interview with Italian website Fanpage, former Italian tennis player Paolo Bertolucci expressed his opinion on this topic, revealing his impressions on the Serbian champion’s form.
Before surrendering in the semi-final against Sinner and interrupting the streak of 33 consecutive victories opened in 2018, the 36-year-old Serbian had left 3 sets on the road during his journey, against opponents definitely within his reach such as Dino Prizmic, Alexei Popyrin and Taylor Fritz.
“Djokovic played badly in Australia, as well as in previous events. We have never seen him in good conditions. Now, if this is due to a problem that can happen – because it happens that one doesn’t get the preparation right – or if the decline, we will find out in the American match between Indian Wells and Miami. I have no ideas because we would have to have seen the training sessions, understand if he stopped or not and with what intensity,” explained Bertolucci.
Novak Djokovic© Julian Finney / Staff Getty Images Sport
The truth at Indian Wells and Miami
The defeat in the semi-final of the Australian Open against the Italian tennis player was a hard blow for the 24-time champion Sla. The conclusion of a rather hesitant and unconvincing journey. The ATP No.1 appeared far from his best form, but negative signals had already been given in the last events of last year and at the beginning of the season in the ATP Cup.
Physical problems? An unexpected but physiological decline, at the age of 37? We will find out in the next few weeks, when the Serbian tennis player will be on stage on the American hard courts in Miami and Indian Wells
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