World number 5 Novak Djokovic acknowledges that almost all of the top 10 players are candidates to win the Australian Open title. Djokovic, a 21-time Grand Slam champion, is considered the number one favorite to win this year’s Australian Open title.
In an interview with Sasa Ozmo from Senior Tennis, Djokovic was asked to name his biggest threats at the Australian Open. «All the top players are the biggest rivals, that’s always the case. Tsitsipas, Sinner, Zverev, of course Medvedev and Nadal, who is a veteran like me.
When it comes to younger players, it’s obvious that Carlos Alcaraz, who will sadly not play in Melbourne, and Holger Rune are the favourites. They are both 19 years old and Alcaraz is deservedly number 1, he had a fantastic year.
Right now, I think it’s even more interesting for people to watch Grand Slams – when we’re all there and healthy, it’s 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 begin his campaign at Melbourne Park playing 75th-ranked Carballes Baena. But there is a bit of a problem for Djokovic going into the Australian Open: he is dealing with a hamstring issue.
Last week, Djokovic suffered a hamstring injury en route to winning Adelaide. Earlier this week, Djokovic ended his Australian Open practice early due to injury. “It’s the hamstring that I had trouble with in Adelaide last week.
I just felt like it was pulling and I didn’t want to risk anything worse. I played a set and apologized 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 suffered an abdominal tear during his third round match at the Australian Open, but still went on to win the title.
