World No 2 Novak Djokovic said on Tuesday that it was ‘refreshing’ for him to miss the just-concluded Miami Open in a press conference in Serbia.
“Of course I wanted to be on the court and defend my title but it just didn’t happen this time,” said Djokovic. “At the same time, it was also rather refreshing to get some rest and sit out Miami at home with my wife and son. It was quality family time which I don’t get enough of and it made me very happy.”
The 29-year-old Serb pulled out of the Miami Open with an injury but will be making a return to tennis in his country’s Davis Cup quarter-final tie against Spain over the weekend.
“A hardcourt tie is not an ideal preparation for the clay court season but given that I was away for a few weeks after a patchy start to the season,” said Djokovic. “I need as many matches as possible to get back into my stride irrespective of the surface.”
He added, “The Davis Cup is a very special event as it generates the kind of home crowd atmosphere you don’t see on the ATP Tour, so I am really looking forward to performing in front of our fans. I always draw very positive energy from the Davis Cup as it invariably brings out the best in me.”
Both Djokovic and World No 1 Andy Murray haven’t been in the best of form lately but the Serb expressed praise at Roger Federer’s performance lately. The Swiss tennis legend has won the Australian Open, Indian Wells and the Miami Open and his win-loss record in 2017 is currently 19-1.
“What Federer has accomplished this year is admirable and it shows that one can play at the top level even at his age,” said Djokovic. “He’s had his ups and downs in the last three or four years but came back swinging and revitalized after a six-month layoff last year.”
