 |
| Novak Djokovic addresses the media before he opens play at the 2013 BNP Paribas Open. |
World No. 1 Novak Djokovic says he's feeling good ahead of a busy tennis month starting with the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells this weekend.
"Couldn't ask for a better start of the season, winning Australia and Dubai, playing on hard courts, which is my most successful and most preferable surface that suits my game the best," Djokovic told the media on Friday.
The Serb said the start of this season feels the same as 2011, when he compiled a 43-match winning streak and remained undefeated until the French Open semifinals in June. That year Djokovic captured the BNP Paribas Open title.
"I don't want to predict anything. My mindset will stay the same, and that is to enjoy the moment, to be in the moment, to try to do my best in the present, and take it step by step and then see how far I can go," Djokovic said.
During that 2011 season, Djokovic beat Rafael Nadal six times in route to claiming the No. 1 ranking in men's tennis. Nadal is marking his return to major competition in Indian Wells after seven months off battling a knee injury.
"It's now been three tournaments in last four weeks for Rafa, and, you know, he doesn't show any signs of pain in the knees and something that can distract him now. He's on the right way, you know," Djokovic said.
"As his colleague and friend, I can say that it's really great to see him back for our sport in general, for fans, for everyone who loves tennis,because he's such a popular and charismatic player and is recognized all over the world," the Serb added.
Djokovic also told reporters he's ready for a busy March with Indians Wells, Miami and a Davis Cup event in Boise, Idaho on his plate over the next five weeks.
"It's not going to be easy, but, again, it's three events in five weeks. It's still all right," Djokovic said. "I know how I need to treat my body, how I need to, you know, prepare for this kind of physical involvement. So I'm looking forward to it."
Djokovic admitted he really enjoys the Davis Cup, because it's a rare occasion where he gets to feel the team spirit. As for playing in Boise, Idaho he did not know much.
"I informed myself through Google and Internet," Djokovic said with a chuckle. "I have seen that there is an altitude obviously of 800 meters, and that goes to favor obviously of American team. On the other hand, I don't know. I wish I could go skiing in Sun Valley, which is very close. But unfortunately, I'm going to have to stay with the racquet and play my best and try to get a win."
