After overcoming a bout of illness that had prompted social media users to suggest that Novak Djokovic was in doubt for the tournament, the world number one has declared that he is fit and raring to go in search of his fifth Australian Open title.
After overcoming a bout of illness that had prompted social media users to suggest that Novak Djokovic was in doubt for the tournament, the world number one has declared that he is fit and raring to go in search of his fifth Australian Open title.
Djokovic had cancelled a practice session and news conference on Saturday, prompting social media to go into a tailspin, though the Serb dispelled those rumours on Sunday, saying that he had a tough couple of days, but it was all behind him now.
Djokovic declared that he is ready for the Open, after a practice session on the Rod Laver Arena, Sport24 reported.
The world number one claimed that it was a little bit with the flu and stomach. But added that he carried that already from the Middle East, referring to his withdrawal from an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi earlier this month.
However, Djokovic added that now it's good and has passed.
The news that the affable Serb, who has won three of the past four finals and lost to eventual champion Stanislas Wawrinka last year in an epic quarterfinal, had overcome his illness was a relief for the organisers, with the world number one a crowd favourite at Melbourne Park.
Djokovic had already been singled out as the man to beat for the title this year with Rafael Nadal acknowledging that the Plexicushion courts were the Serb's favourite surface.
Second seed Roger Federer also branded that Serb as the favourite, though Djokovic was just as keen to squelch those expectations.
Djokovic said that he doesn't believe it's nice to talk about the title when the tournament hasn't started yet, adding that there are so many players who are contenders to win. He added that considering the success that he had in his career in this tournament gives him enough reason and confidence to believe that he can go far.
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