Novak Djokovic is currently in Tokyo where he is about to play in the local ATP500 despite his injury concerns. The Serbian sensation was not 100% sure about participating in the Asian Swing because of his problem to the left shoulder, but eventually he decided to play.
Djokovic about his left shoulder
The world no.1 commented:
“It’s in a way pleasantly surprised that I’m able to play Tokyo because after first assessment it wasn’t that realistic for me to be here but here I am.
I played a doubles match. Unfortunately we lost, but the shoulder seems to be fine. I played a week of training and practice sets and matches here in Japan since I arrived. All is well. I’m pleased with how I feel and obviously very excited and motivated to be playing in this tournament for the first time in my career.”
1st match vs. Popyrin
Novak will face the Australian rising star Alexei Popyrin for the first time in his career on Tuesday. That will be a very important test for the world no.1. Winning in straight sets would be very important for Djokovic to preserve his injury.
Novak Djokovic’s ranking and performance in 2019
Now ranked no.1, Djokovic played his last match on the 1st of September when he lost to Stan Wawrinka 6-4 7-5 2-1 ret. in the 4th round in U.S. Open.
This year Novak has a 41-8 win-loss record. The Serbian conquered 3 titles in 2019 at the Australian Open, in Madrid and in Wimbledon. The Serbian was the finalist in Rome.