Djokovic was defeated in the third round by Lorenzo Musetti in Monte Carlo last week, with the Italian breaking Djokovic’s serve eight times.
Novak Djokovic admits he’s still suffering with an elbow problem as he prepares for the Srpska Open this week, as the Serb attempts to get his French Open preparations back on track after an early departure at the Monte Carlo Masters.
Djokovic lost in the third round against Lorenzo Musetti in Monte Carlo last week, with the Italian breaking Djokovic’s serve eight times.
“My elbow isn’t in great shape, but it’s good enough for the first match,” Djokovic told reporters.
“One of the great things about tennis is that you get new chances to prove your worth and progress every week.” I’ve taken a fresh start.
“Naturally, I was dissatisfied with the outcome at Monte Carlo. But, ever since I arrived, I’ve been welcomed in Banja Luka, with a lot of wonderful energy and feelings.”
Djokovic will play 18-year-old Luca Van Assche on Wednesday in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina, after the Frenchman defeated three-time Grand Slam winner Stan Wawrinka 1-6 7-6(4) 6-4.
Djokovic stated, “I don’t know much about the young French guy.
“I anticipated Wawrinka winning the match. Van Assche is a strong combatant who plays quickly; I just saw a brief glimpse of him playing. Nobody should be taken lightly.
Van Assche, who is ranked 87th in the world, stated that it was an honour to compete against Djokovic.
“Novak is a real champion. Not only in tennis, but in all sports, he continued. “The game will be fantastic. I am aware that winning will require my whole commitment.
