Novak Djokovic: 'Obviously he's had his mark with Rafael Nadal for...'

• Tennis News
• Rafael Nadal

After winning his eighteenth career Slam at the Australian Open and overcoming his abdominal injury, Novak Djokovic is ready to return to the field. The Serbian champion will compete in the Masters 1000 in Monte Carlo this week and will look to triumph on the red clay of the Principality for the third time.

At the press conference, Djokovic talked about the surface change and the new experience of Toni Nadal in the Felix Auger-Aliassime team. “I didn't do anything in particular to prepare for clay. Throughout my career, I stopped playing fast after hard courts and achieved a good level on clay.

I don't think there is anything special I can do to feel better on the pitch. Obviously I trained a lot on this surface and I feel at home in Monte Carlo. I am physically fine; the truth is, I've had a hard time losing some major tournaments.

I'm really looking forward to playing my first game here. It is a shame not to have the fans in the stands." Novak Djokovic spoke about a wide range of topics at his press conference ahead of the 2021 Monte Carlo Masters. Djokovic touched upon the news of Rafael Nadal's former coach Toni forming an alliance with Felix Auger-Aliassime, before talking in brief about the bubble life in Monaco.

Novak Djokovic spoke about a wide range of topics

"It's hard to imagine right now Marian Vajda coaching someone else while I'm still playing," Novak Djokovic said. "But, listen, Rafael Nadal and Toni haven't been traveling or working together for a few years now.

Toni was probably looking for a new challenge; honestly, that didn't surprise me too much." Novak Djokovic also lavished praise on Felix Auger-Aliassime's shot-making skills and work ethic. "I know Felix has spent quite a bit of time over the past two years training hard and getting advice and mentoring from Toni when he was there," Novak Djokovic said.

"Toni was probably excited to explore a new project, a new adventure so to speak on the circuit with one of the best young tennis players in the world at the moment. Felix is a great guy. He's someone with a hard-working ethic, which is very important to Toni." The World No.

1 added that Toni could perhaps unlock the young Canadian's potential just the way he did with his nephew. "I wish them all the best. It's nice to see Toni on tour," Djokovic said. "Obviously he's had his mark with Rafael Nadal for so many years. I feel like he can only bring positive aspects to Felix's game and spirit."