Novak Djokovic on the importance of routines
Novak Djokovic has revealed that he is yet to receive any ‘threats’ from fellow players after impersonating a number of his rivals during a practice session at the US Open. The Serb breezed into the second round on Tuesday with a straight-sets win over Alexandre Muller to mark his return to Flushing Meadows following a two-year absence.
Djokovic managed to claim the spoils in just 96 minutes and cruised through the opening set without losing a game. He went on to make light work of Muller in sets two and three, with the result confirming his return to the top of the ATP singles rankings.
It was strictly business for Djokovic during the match but things took a lighter turn during his post-match interview while discussing a recent practice session. He entertained the crowd by impersonating a number of fellow tennis players, none of whom objected to it afterwards.
Djokovic explained that he will be looking to brush up on his impersonation skills ready for next time, saying: “It’s a little bit outdated you know, I guess I have to work on them. I haven’t done impersonations in quite a few years.
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“Actually, the first time I’ve done it kind of on a big stage was here in front of you guys, 2006 or 2007. And the response was good from the crowd, from the players not so much. I haven’t had any threats yet in the locker room [for] what I’ve done [a] few days ago, so I might do another practice session with some impersonations.”
Djokovic was then quizzed on his thoughts about playing late matches at the US Open, with his victory over Muller stretching into the early hours of the morning in New York.
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“[It] started quite late, obviously,” he said. “There was a ceremony between matches and I knew that I might have a late start. But nevertheless, you know, I was excited to go out on the court, it has been a couple of years. Thanks for all the people who stayed, almost one [o’clock in the morning].
“I appreciate your presence this late. Children should go to sleep but adults, you can stay, thanks a lot. Night sessions on Arthur Ashe are always something very special.”
Djokovic will be in action again on Wednesday when he faces Bernabe Zapata Miralles in the second round of the US Open. He will be desperate to avoid making an early exit in his bid to topple defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, who beat him in the Wimbledon final earlier this year.
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