Eyeing a “calendar” Grand Slam and the opportunity to draw level with Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer on 20 major singles wins, Novak Djokovic kicks off his quest to be the best at Wimbledon today.
Facing British wildcard Jack Draper in the first round at 2.30pm today, the 34-year-old already bagged the Australian and French Opens and is looking to become the first man since Rod Laver in 1969 to win all four majors.
Djokovic says: “Grand Slams are the biggest motivation I have right now at this stage of my career.
“I’m trying to peak at the majors. I’ve been managing to do that throughout my career. I’ve had fortune to really play my best tennis when it mattered the most.”
He adds: “The level of confidence is pretty high. Obviously, winning the two majors this year, playing very well in Roland Garros. That tournament took a lot out of me I think mentally and physically and emotionally. It also granted me with an incredible amount of positive energy and confidence.”
South Africans Kevin Anderson and Lloyd Harris are also in action at SW19 today.
Anderson faces Marcelo Tomas Barrios Vera at 12pm, with Harris in action against Ricardas Berankis at 2pm.