Novak Djokovic: 'You always have to figure out how...'

• Tennis News
• Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic had not competed in a singles tournament for two months, when he lifted his 21st Grand Slam crown on the Wimbledon grass. That was not an obstacle to find a great version. After joining Team Europa during last week's Laver Cup, the Serbian returned this Thursday under the cover of the Tel Aviv Watergen Open ready to impose his authority on the indoor track.

The old no.1 in the Pepperstone ATP Rankings defeated Spaniard Pablo Andújar 6-0, 6-3 in a solid performance. Novak tried to adjust his control of the bottom of the court, set the pace with the backhand and, especially, impose order with his serve.

Djokovic came to victory without suffering a single break and giving up just five points (22/27) on his first serve. "The atmosphere has been incredible. I love the track, I feel very intimate. The stands here are very intense, people show great passion for the sport.

I'm delighted to be here and I appreciate the support," said Djokovic. "I hadn't played a tournament in a few months, so I appreciate that you made it special today for me." After a dizzying first set, resolved in less than 30 minutes of play, the Balkan had to squeeze himself thoroughly to overcome the resistance of the Spanish.

Andújar showed his character surviving five break points and more than 10 minutes in the second game of the second set, keeping the score level until 3-3, before being overtaken by the talent of the Belgrade player.

"The first game started perfectly for me. I've won seven games in a row and then came that eighth game which has been one of the longest of my life. I congratulate Pablo for his fight. I've stayed focused, and I've closed the match."

Nole wants to get back on top

Novak Djokovic has revealed his strategy for achieving unprecedented success on the court.

“There isn’t one secret or one key that solves all the problems. It’s a combination of things that are part of your character: who you are, how you train, what’s your lifestyle,” he told reporters on Wednesday.

“It all creates the image of success. That formula has worked for me. I also try some new things, because I always want to progress. Especially when you have guys like Alcaraz, who is full of power and adrenaline. So you always have to figure out how to improve and take yourself to a higher level,” he continued.