Novak Djokovic had to use his protective elbow sleeve once again, this time only after one game played at the 2023 Italian Open.
The Serb entered the court at Foro Italico with the confidence of a seasoned champion. Despite his age, he remains in a fight for the top spot, carving a legacy that transcends generations. Despite previous injury concerns, Djokovic said that he feels well ahead of the tournament, and he didn't even use the protective elbow sleeve during the practice.
However, his decision to wear an elbow sleeve after the first game was a startling sight for spectators worldwide, sparking concerns about a potential injury. In the lead-up to the tournament, Djokovic had addressed his fitness, assuring everyone that things were "all good".
"No, no, it's all good. It's all good. I mean, there's always some things here and there that bother you on this level. It's normal. Also when you're not 25 any more, I guess you experience that a bit more than what used to be the case (smiling). It takes a little bit more time I guess to recover."
He acknowledged the natural toll that age takes on the body, but his jovial demeanor and consistent success on the Roman clay seemed to banish any lingering doubts. Rome, after all, had been a city of triumph for him.
"But I feel good. I miss competition. I love playing in Rome. Historically throughout my career, Rome has always been a very nice tournament for me, had plenty of success, won it many times."
A potential injury at this stage of the season could have significant implications. With the French Open on the horizon, Djokovic's health is under the microscope.
"Played also quite a few times in finals. My most successful clay court event and the biggest one coming into French Open. Hopefully it can serve, again, as a great, great springboard for me to what's coming up in Paris where I want to play my best."
The Serb also mentioned that it's important to adapt to the court and conditions, and that it may take longer time, and his second-round match may be a clear showing of that.
"I feel that it takes more practice sessions, more weeks of spending time on the court and working on your shots, working on your tactics, on technique, adaptation to the court than any other surface."
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