Novak Djokovic: Serb reveals secret to his history of Italian Open success
NOVAK DJOKOVIC insists he always enjoys the Italian Open and says he loves coming back to Rome because of the support he receives from the fans.
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Djokovic has reached the last four straight finals and five of the last six, winning twice - in 2013 and 2014.
But he returns to Foro Italico a different player this time around.
The Serbian has dropped to world No 18 - his lowest ranking in 12 years - having failed to progress past the round of 16 in any of his six events in 2018.
Since coming back from a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury, Djokovic has struggled for momentum - although he started of his campaign in Italy well by beating Ukraine’s Alexandr Dolgopolov 6-1, 6-3 yesterday.
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I’ve always kind of played well in Rome due to the connections and relationships with the people, they give me great energy. It motivates me to play well.
And expanding on the reasons for his successful history with the Masters 1000 event, Djokovic told reporters: “I think the conditions are pretty suitable to my game.
“It’s kind of a medium speed court which is quite suitable to the game style that I have.
“I just overall always feel so nice in Rome. Speaking Italian helps but also I feel connected to the people here.
“Back in 2008, was one of the first big ones that I won, the first Rome title that I had.
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“Since then I’ve had plenty of titles, finals and semi-finals.
“I’ve always kind of played well in Rome due to the connections and relationships with the people, they give me great energy. It motivates me to play well.”
Djokovic faces a qualifier in either Nikoloz Basilashvili or Filippo Baldi in the second round. The two go head-to-head at 10am today.