2008 French Open champion Ana Ivanovic has warned Novak Djokovic’s competition that the 37-year-old Serb is “still the strongest contestant” to win it all at Roland Garros this year.
Following a shaky start to the season and not managing to win a title through the opening three months, Djokovic’s struggles continued during the clay season as well. And it all culminated after Djokovic suffered a shock 2-6 3-6 loss to Alejandro Tabilo in the Rome third round as that loss raised major doubts and concerns regarding the Serb’s going into the French Open.
But Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz aren’t in the greatest position either as the Italian’s French Open participation is in doubt because of a hip injury sustained in Madrid while the Spaniard has only played in Madrid so far this clay season due to his ongoing forearm issues.
Meanwhile, world No. 4 Alexander Zverev is now regarded among French Open favorites after winning this past Rome Masters.
Ivanovic: I think Djokovic will be at his full form at the French Open
“There have been a lot of new players in the last few weeks reaching far in the tournaments and beating some top players,” Ivanovic told Ubitennis.
“So we are going to see many new faces on the men’s side. Of course Novak is still the strongest contestant for the title, but also Alcaraz and Sinner.
“Novak had a little bit tougher clay court season so far than usual, but I think he is for sure peaking his full form for the French Open.”
Novak Djokovic © Getty Images Sport – Julian Finney
This week, Djokovic is making his debut at an ATP 250 tournament in Geneva after accepting a late wildcard there. For Djokovic, playing Geneva was a move made in the hopes of getting some matches, wins and rhythm going into the French Open.
While Djokovic is undoubtedly in a challenging situation, he has a history of overcoming adversity and finding a way to win when the time comes to perform on the biggest stage.
If Djokovic wins this year French Open, it will be his fourth title at Roland Garros and he will also become the first player ever with 25 Grand Slams.
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