The first segment of the 2025 season provided mixed feelings about Novak Djokovic's current status. The Serbian legend can be very pleased with his level at the Australian Open where he reached the semifinals despite a left thigh injury and at the Miami Open, where he was only defeated by Jakub Mensik in the final.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion played very well in Florida, where he did not lose a set until the final, cherishing the dream of finally lifting the 100th trophy of his amazing career. After his disastrous result in Indian Wells at the beginning of March, the former world number 1 has shown that he can still be competitive at the highest level especially when the conditions are suitable for his game.
Nole will play in Monte Carlo
The 37-year-old from Belgrade will not have much time to rest after returning from Miami, as he will be among the protagonists of the Monte Carlo Masters 1000 next week.
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Nole has won 'only' twice in Monte Carlo during his career and has not achieved brilliant results in the Principality in recent years, with the exception of the semi-final reached in the last edition (when he was defeated by Casper Ruud).
The truth is that Djokovic has often struggled at the beginning of the season on red clay, but it is clear to everyone that his main goal is to improve his shape ahead of the French Open.
Speaking on Eurosport, former Swedish ace Mats Wilander speculated that Novak will struggle to play his best tennis in the first tournaments on this surface: "I think he will have some problems at the beginning, just like he has in recent years.
This part of the season is definitely not the most suitable for his game. Nole is also a sensational player on red clay, but the way he hits the ball is not the best possible on this surface. In particular, his forehand is less effective on these courts and he struggles more to win points quickly."
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The former world No.1 also plans to play the Mutua Madrid Open this year.
