Novak Djokovic: ´Disappointed about Armstrong´s doping scandal: the tennis courts are more honest

At a press conference Novak Djokovic does not seem to agree with those who think that the draw of the U.S. Open has been favorable, because "there are a lot of players who have strong motivations in these tournaments. Let's not forget what happened at Wimbledon during the encounter between Nadal and Rosol. We need to think one step at a time, turn by turn."

"I really like the tournament, I feel the energy I have had here in the last five years and I get great satisfaction from this. The feeling of returning to New York, one of the most exciting cities of the world, as champion, it's amazing. I enjoy interacting with people a lot, with fans who enjoy your every point, I think it is different from other Slams despite each of them being unique in its offering.”

Nole continued believing that his current season is still positive:

“It is difficult to compare to 2011: Physically I feel stronger and more prepared, maybe mentally I have had ups and downs, I think it is difficult to expect to win consecutively for six months. We must always look at the positive aspects, this season, I was very happy with my results in Toronto and Cincinnati."

The Slam, starting tomorrow, will be the first tournament without Nadal, who Djokovic wishes "a speedy recovery, as he is a great opponent, I know him very well outside of the court. I'm sure he has a serious problem because otherwise he would come to compete. For the tournament and tennis it’s a great loss, because he is very appreciated and popular all over the world. "

A thought also comes to some of the protagonists of women's tennis like Serena Williams:

"She continues to dominate and win most of her matches, although she is not present in all tournaments on the circuit. She is a model for many young people who are ushering in tennis."

In reference to Kim Clijsters, he also discussed other players great success. While the compatriots Jankovic and Ivanovic appeared in identity crisis in recent years he believes they still have "the qualities and skills to be able to repeat as before. Competition increases and you have to be mentally prepared to be able to overcome the pressure and believe you can do it again."

Finally, he made an indirect jab to Lance Armstrong and the doping scandal involving the cycling world in the last days:

"When I heard this story I was as disappointed as many others. As an athlete I know how difficult it is to reach the top: commitment, sacrifice, hard work.

Not by the merits of who is or is not guilty. I say that in tennis there are many fewer cases and we are working to keep the tradition and the integrity of our sport. The boys have to send a strong message especially because they are looking for correct models that motivate them to become professionals," concluded the former world number one.