Novak Djokovic disclosed a fascinating insight into his pre-match routine before a Grand Slam final and specifically at the Australian Open.
The Serbian star has won 24 Grand Slams in his illustrious career, with 10 of those coming at the Australian Open. He owns the record for the most titles won at Melbourne Park and is the second man in history to win one Grand Slam singles tournament in double figures.
Djokovic also owns the record of playing in more Grand Slam finals than any other singles player, with 36. Ahead of his title defense, which begins on Sunday, January 14th, against Croatian qualifier Dino Prizmic, he gave an interesting reply when quizzed about his preparation for his 10 championship matches Down Under.
Djokovic's secret has always been to focus on what he can control, which is the present, and he is in a "constant inner battle" with himself to avoid thinking of the probabilities and outcomes that could potentially happen. He believes the mind is his most powerful tool to achieve that.
"So, it's a constant inner battle of trying to bring yourself to the present moment and not get carried away with all the scenarios and things that might happen or not gonna happen. So, it's all in your mind, so the more you're in the present moment, the more you're able to enjoy."
While speaking to the AO Show, Djokovic also revealed the pre-match routine he follows before a Grand Slam final. He stated that his routine is subject to change depending on his mood.
However, some of the things he indulges in include listening to music and engaging in dialogue with his team. The 36-year-old opined that the moments he shares with his team help him unwind and distract him from thinking about the match.
"The day of the finals? I normally have my team members in the car and yeah, it really depends on which kind of mood I am. Sometimes I just like to be with my own thoughts and listen to something, music or whatever. And just prepare myself for what's coming up."
"Or, you know, sometimes we talk about a random subject or topic, just to chitchat so that I can get my thoughts away from what's coming up. So it really depends on the mood, but the buildup, what's happening inside regardless of it. The feelings, the energy that I have inside is like, 'Something is brewing', you know?"
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