Novak Djokovic vs Roman Safiullin: 2024 Monte-Carlo Masters - Preview & Prediction

Novak Djokovic will start his 2024 Monte-Carlo Masters campaign against Roman Safiullin, who can be a real threat.

The Serbian hasn't played that well lately. His most recent match was a loss to Luca Nardi at the Indian Wells. He skipped the Miami Open to better prepare for clay, so many are wondering what might happen in Monte Carlo.

Djokovic himself has lowered expectations, which isn't hugely surprising, but many will be observing to see whether his bad play persists. Safiullin is not an easy player to beat and could certainly make Djokovic's life miserable if the Serbian doesn't play at a decent level.

Head-to-head:

They have only played once so far, and Djokovic won that match, but it wasn't that easy. Safiullin pushed him quite a bit in one set, but generally, Djokovic was able to overcome the Russian. It's mostly a matchup problem because Safiullin is very streaky.

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On his best day, he can certainly make your life miserable, but I think a solid Djokovic should be able to make everything he does really well negative. Clay is an interesting tidbit to remember, but Djokovic is a better fit on that surface, so I don't think there will be many problems.

Prediction:

Djokovic practiced quite a bit before coming to Monaco and then added a few more days there. He is generally pretty good on clay and arguably one of the best players ever. He should certainly have an edge on Safiullin.

I think the Russian will keep it close, and I expect some struggles from Djokovic, but I think he'll still be able to keep it in two sets. He's just too solid in my humble opinion.

Prediction: Novak Djokovic to win in two sets.

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