Novak Djokovic said he is feeling good ahead of the China Open. Djokovic will return to the tour after his first-round loss at the US Open, where he was stunned by Argentina’s Mariano Navone.
Djokovic has a stunning record in Beijing as he has lifted the trophy on six occasions (2009, ’10, ’12, ’13, ’14, ’15) and has a stunning 29-0 record at the ATP 500 event. But, the veteran has not taken part at the competition since 2015, however he is delighted to be back.
“[I’m] feeling good so far,” Djokovic said in the pre-tournament press conference on Monday. “Obviously it’s completely different when you’re playing an official match compared to the practice sets or practice sessions. But so far so good. I was looking forward to coming to China, as I always have. My record speaks for itself on Chinese soil. Knowing that, it also brings this dimension of confidence that I really need. Overall, it’s been really good so far with the body, the way I’m feeling and playing.”
The Serbian is looking forward to taking part in the tournament and would look to extend his unbeaten record in Beijing.
“I have great record here. Always enjoyed playing in Beijing, in China in general, particularly here in Beijing,” Djokovic said. “Great support. Great atmosphere. Practice sessions and matches, there’s a lot of love, a lot of support from Chinese tennis fans. I always look forward to that.
“I came here a few days early to try to get some practice sets and some hours spent on the court before I start to play. The facility has improved a lot. I mean, it was always a very impressive facility, one of the most impressive that we have in our sport. Back in 2008 it was built for the Olympic Games in Beijing. I remember playing in Lotus Court that is now the second court. Now obviously the big stadium has been built.”
Djokovic gave his gratitude to all the Chinese fans, from whom he has received a lot of love over the years.
“Other than winning, the best memories would be definitely my fans, the way they greet me, the way they support me, the way they show me love, how passionate they are about tennis,” Djokovic said. “My NoleFam here in China has been incredible, both Beijing and Shanghai, over the years. They definitely are the highlight and something I always take away anywhere I go in the world with me.”
Djokovic will begin his campaign against Portugal’s Nuno Borges on Wednesday.
