‘I’m Not Scared’ – Novak Djokovic Presents an Open Challenge to Lorenzo Musetti With Revenge on His Mind

Walking into the Monte Carlo Open, world No. 1 Novak Djokovic had declared the Paris Olympics as his main priority and expressed having low expectations for the Masters Cup. However, despite that, the Serb performed exceptionally well in his opening match, defeating Russian tennis pro Roman Safiullin in straight sets, giving a glimpse of why he has been at the top for a record total number of weeks.

Djokovic will now face Italian tennis pro Lorenzo Musetti in a rematch of sorts in the round of 16. Showing championship mettle, the Serb has made a roaring declaration despite his dwindling form against Italians in the recent past.

Novak Djokovic wants to set the record straight!

Talking in a post-match presser, showcasing his famous champion-like mentality, Djokovic seems to be looking for revenge. Notably, exactly one year ago, in the same round and the same tournament, he suffered a major upset at the hands of Musetti. Hailing the Italian as one the most promising young talents currently, especially on clay, he aimed to set the record straight this time. Perhaps the Serbian player is going to go all in to reverse last year’s result!

In response to a reporter who questioned Djokovic about his lack of form against the Italians, the player exuded confidence in himself and revealed, “I’m not scared of anything and anybody, but I really hope that I can get the chance to play him again, get the matchup, another matchup here.” Further appreciating Musetti for his superior form and athleticism, the World No. 1 player said, “One of the most talented players on clay, a beautiful one-handed backhand. He’s very athletic. He can do a lot of great things. He’s one of the most promising young players, not only from Italy but generally for the world.”

After his upsetting loss to Musetti in Monte Carlo last year, Djokovic’s unbeaten streak of 33 games at Melbourn Park was broken by the 22-year-old Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open in January this season.

Later, his return to the Indian Wells was majorly soured by another Italian luck loser, Luca Nardi, who gave Djokovic one of the biggest upsets of his career. Now Musetti is looking to replay another upset for the Serb on the beautiful red clay courts of the Monte Carlo Country Club.

Lorenzo Musetti looking forward to a ‘beautiful match’ with Novak Djokovic

Speaking to the media after his impressive win against Arthur Fils, the Italian seems to be anticipating his rematch with Djokovic with much relish. “It’s kind of fun, because it’s exactly one year, because it’s same tournament, same round, and same spot,” he openly revealed.

The 22-year-old player also pointed to the match as holding the potential for an engaging contest, offering valuable lessons regardless of the outcome. He humbly acknowledged that regardless of the outcome, facing a seasoned champion like Djokovic always provides valuable learning opportunities to learn from.

“So really looking forward now to, you know, have one day off, and then enjoy the beautiful match upcoming with Nole,” the player said on a concluding note.

Evidently, both seem to be moving into the round of 16 with great form and positivity. The match tomorrow will surely provide high entertainment value for the fans! Who, do you think, will win? Tell us your predictions in the comment section below!

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