Djokovic Trying to Avoid “Beating Last Year”

Written by: Staff on 28th February 2012

Djokovic Trying to Avoid “Beating Last Year” |

Novak Djokovic is dealing with the pressure of trying to repeat what he achieved in 2011 by treating it as just another season.

“To be honest, I’m not really comparing 2012 with 2011. I’m not comparing any year with another year, because I think year is different,” he said after beginning the defense of his Dubai Duty Free Championships title.

“I want to have this positive mindset on the court that is going to kind of keep me away from unnecessary pressure that I already have as number one in the world and as a top player, somebody that’s expected to win in most of the matches.

“The last year was amazing. Definitely best year of my career. If you ask me if I can repeat it, I don’t know. It’s going to be very, very hard obviously. But I’m trying to go for the trophy like everyone else. I try to be hunting for the trophy, not (be) the hunted one. I’m not trying to defend. So I think this is the right mindset.

“When I’m stepping on the court, I want to be playing my game and going for the shots. I think I (have) been handling it quite well for now.”

It is unusual to get a sold-out stadium on the opening night, but that is what happened in Dubai as he took on Cedrik-Marcel Stebe. Djokovic loved the atmosphere and on one occasion even joined in the Mexican Wave as he waited to serve.

“Of course I like it,” he said. “Of course I enjoy my new position and everything I have achieved so far in my career, especially in the last year and a half. I mean, I’m proud of all the results, and I know that the results are there for a reason.

“I been working really hard. I know since I was four years old I been dedicated to this sport, as most of top players that been playing this sport forever, always seeking to be the best in what we do. It’s really nice stepping out on the court and seeing a full stadium and having a lot of support. I’m very flattered.”

Topics: Novak Djokovic