Novak Djokovic says Miami Open final run gives him ‘more inspiration to keep going’

Novak Djokovic recently made it to the Miami Open final but could not cross the final hurdle against youngster Jakub Mensik as he suffered a 6-7, 6-7 loss at the Hard Rock Stadium. The Serbian defeated seeded players like Sebastian Korda, Grigor Dimitrov, and Lorenzo Musetti to qualify for the summit clash.

Djokovic said making a deep run in the ATP 1000 Masters gives him a lot of confidence. The veteran is chasing his 100th title on the tour and he would look to kick off his Monte Carlo Masters campaign on a high.

“There is no doubt that it has become more difficult throughout my career but the performances in Miami, when I am playing that way, it gives me more inspiration to keep going,” Djokovic said. “It just feels great on the court when you are striking the ball well and winning matches. Obviously when you start losing early you have more questions and inner voices, which are bringing doubts about whether you should keep going.

“I am glad in Miami I found that joy on the court and performance levels, so let’s see if I can carry that into clay. It is a different surface and I have not had much time to get used to this tournament so my expectations are not that high.”

The 24-time Grand Slam champion was pleased with the way he played in Miami and he would look to carry the good show.

“We spoke about Miami. A bit of a bitter feeling in the end to lose the final, but it was high-quality from me. Served great, played well. I was just a bit unlucky in the final — two tie-breaks — but he was better. That is all,” Djokovic said. “It gives me a great deal of encouragement and positivity reflecting on my game and how I played in Miami.”

Djokovic could meet Stan Wawrinka in his opening match in Monaco.