Novak Djokovic starts practicing on clay in Belgrade

• Tennis News
• Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic has started practicing on clay in Belgrade and Viktor Troicki is his sparring partner, per Sport Klub. Djokovic, 35, was denied entry into the United States for the Masters events in Indian Wells and Miami.

After receiving the news from the United States, Djokovic switched his focus to the clay season and on Friday started practicing on the slowest tennis surface. On April 9th, the Monte Carlo Masters is starting. Djokovic, who is a two-time champion in Monte Carlo, is planning to return to action there.

Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev want Djokovic to play

In the Indian Wells final, Alcaraz defeated Medvedev. After the final, both Alcaraz and Medvedev said it was unfortunate that Djokovic wasn't allowed to play. Alcaraz, who defeated Djokovic at the Madrid Masters last year, revealed he would like to meet the Serb again.

"Yes, of course. I mean, Novak is one of the best players in the world. That’s obvious. You know, I will say that if you want to be the best, you have to beat the best. I really wanted to play against Novak again. We miss him on tour, and hopefully to have him back very, very soon.

But yeah, of course it could be amazing to play against him again," Alcaraz said in Indian Wells. Meanwhile, Medvedev said he was sure everyone would love to see Djokovic being allowed to compete in all tournaments. "Oh, yeah, 100% because it’s for sure unfortunate Novak cannot play all the tournaments, and I’m sure everyone would love to see him play, because it’s just good to see Novak play.

He plays very good," Medvedev said. Now that Djokovic officially missed the Sunshine Double, his focus will be on enjoying a great clay season. For Djokovic in the upcoming period, the top priority will be winning a record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam at the French Open.