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via Reuters

via Reuters

Novak Djokovic is back in the city of Paris. Yesterday, world no.1 had his first practice session on the red courts of Stade Roland Garros. Having an intense practice, the Serbian looked in good shape coming in as a defending champion. Steadily coming back to his peak after having an unstable start to the season might be a reason to rejoice for Djokovic. However, what gave the 2-time French Open champion an overwhelming feeling was the attendance of the tennis fans during his practice sessions.

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Fan giving Djokovic a reason to rejoice

Novak Djokovic has been one of the most loved players on the tour for a long time. However, the ever-growing fan following he enjoys today didn’t come that easy. Over the years with his game, the Serbian has repeatedly given ample reasons to show why he is such a fan favorite. The 34-year-old usually enjoys a full-house during his matches around the world.

With the Roland Garros 2022 draw announced yesterday, all players are gearing up to add some final touches to their game. The top-seeded Djokovic is no different. Focused on being at his peak during the tournament, Djokovic yesterday had an intense practice session. However, what came in as a surprise for him was the match-like crowd turning up during his practice session.

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Understanding the feeling of missing tennis because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Serbian took no time to go all praise for the fans. Talking to the press, Djokovic said, “Amazing to see the public already there for the training and the qualifications. You can feel they missed tennis.”

Looking at Djokovic’s gracious career, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that the Serbian has received immense support from tennis fans throughout his career. However, always making sure to address the love from fans, Djokovic has often been heard saying that the fans are his driving force.

Yesterday was no different. Mesmerized by love from his fans in Paris, Djokovic said, “At this stage in my career, the energy from the crowd is one of the reasons for which I continue.”

Looking to give some final touches to his game, the Serbian will today practice with young Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz. The two top contenders for the title will practice at 12.30 PM on Court No. 2.

Novak Djokovic eyeing to defend his title

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Going down memory lane, Djokovic had an unpleasant start to the season. Following his firm stand on his COVID-19 vaccination, Djokovic played just one tournament before kicking off his clay-court run. Entering Roland Garros, Djokovic has polished his clay-court game by playing four clay-court tournaments.

via Reuters

After missing out on the Australian Open, Djokovic is now eyeing to defend his Roland Garros title. However, this year, apart from Rafael Nadal, the two-time champion, may face tough competition from the young generation as well. With players like Carlos Alcaraz and Stefanos Tsitsipas in excellent form, the World No. 1 will have to pull his socks in order to win his 3rd title at the French capital.

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He will kick off his tournament campaign against Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka.