Novak Djokovic issued a defiant message ahead of his next match at the Monte-Carlo Masters, claiming that he is “not scared of anything”. The world No. 1 has been honest about his recent poor record in Monaco and could face his conqueror from last year in the third round. But Djokovic isn’t worried, even if he has played and won fewer matches this season.
Djokovic got off to a strong start in Monte Carlo, needing just an hour and 10 minutes to demolish Roman Safiullin 6-1 6-2. It was his first match since he suffered a shock defeat to lucky loser and then-world No. 123 Luca Nardi in Indian Wells exactly four weeks ago.
The 24-time Major winner has had a disappointing start to the season by his standards. He went 8-3 in his first 11 matches of the year and has so far failed to reach a final, let alone lift a trophy. And he could run into more trouble in the next round if he faces Musetti, the man who beat him in Monte Carlo 12 months ago.
Djokovic’s last two losses have come to Italians – Nardi in Indian Wells and Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open – and he was asked whether that added another concerning element to the possibility of facing Musetti. “I’m not scared of anything and anybody, but I really hope that I can get the chance to play him again, get the matchup, another matchup here,” the world No. 1 stated.
“He obviously is, you know, one of the most talented players on clay, a beautiful one-handed backhand. He’s very athletic. He can do a lot of great things. He’s one of the most promising young players not only from Italy but generally for the world.”
Musetti will face teenage sensation Arthur Fils in his second-round match, with the winner going on to face Djokovic. The 36-year-old said: “Yeah, let’s see. Let’s see how it works. I mean, Arthur Fils is also a tough opponent to beat. He’s got to win that match.”
Djokovic is well aware that he hasn’t done well at the Monte-Carlo Masters in recent years, failing to get beyond the third round since 2019. But he already feels better than he did 12 months ago when he crashed out to the Italian. He added: “I like the way I played my first match comparing to the first match last year. I feel much different, more ready, so whoever is across the net, I’m hoping I can deliver my best game.”
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