Djokovic Seeking Fast Start To Clay Swing In Monte-Carlo

Novak Djokovic is looking to make a fast start to the clay-court swing this week when he leads the field as the top seed at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters.

The World No. 1 has not competed since he reached the semi-finals in Dubai in early March.

“I have done more training on clay, which is positive if you think about the clay season,” Djokovic said in his pre-tournament press conference. “I have not had much success in Monte-Carlo in the past two seasons. I haven’t played great tennis here, so I am hoping this year I can start the clay season better than in previous years and build my form.”

The Serbian, who suffered an opening-round exit in Monte-Carlo last year, has tasted success at the clay-court ATP Masters 1000 event, lifting the trophy in 2013 and 2015. Djokovic uses the Monte-Carlo Country Club as a training base and is excited to be competing at the prestigious venue again.

“It is a club I know very well. Quite a few top players reside in Monaco and use this club as a training base. The club transforms incredibly during the weeks of the tournament, but it is a great feeling to sleep in your own bed,” Djokovic said. “Being able to have a home feeling of playing in the tournament.

“The atmosphere is amazing, with the club being so intimate and small. It is noisy and great. People are so excited to watch tennis and this is the tournament that has been successful throughout the history of our sport.”

Djokovic is chasing a record-extending 39th ATP Masters 1000 crown this week in the Principality. The 35-year-old will begin his quest against American Mackenzie McDonald or a qualifier.