The quality of tennis displayed by Novak Djokovic this season has not met the expectations of even his most diehard fans. The former world number one also parted ways with his coaching staff ahead of the Madrid Open, where he survived a tough match against Nicolas Almagro. Now, there is serious need for the Serbian to come up with some stunning tennis when he faces Feliciano Lopez in the round of 16 clash at the Madrid Open 2017 on Thursday.
Djokovic did not play his best game against Almagro, but won the tight match in the final set. With big guns like Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray battling it out for the title, he has to constantly show his mettle as the competition moves ahead.
However, the Serbian has an impressive record against Lopez, who has only defeated Djokovic once in his tennis career so far, and that too when the former world number one retired from the match. Lopez knows that this is the perfect time to play Djokovic, who is struggling and also lacking in confidence.
Lopez will have to bring all his experience together to throw Djokovic out of the competition. It is not an impossible task. Djokovic is no longer invincible. Lopez, playing in Spain, will always have his share of crowd support, but then the superstar of men's tennis, Djokovic, will also be egged on.
Defending champion Djokovic is aware that he is not playing his best tennis. The Serbian hopes that he can get his best game going soon.
"I'm still finding my way to that consistency level and quality of tennis that I'm looking for. I'm aware that I'm not playing at my best, but I'm definitely believing in myself and the process. Eventually, the game will come together," livetennis.com quoted Djokovic as saying.
Djokovic has to be careful against Lopez, who did not have a good hard court season. But he has looked a different and better player on clay. Lopez could prove to be a tough nut to crack for Djokovic .
Where to watch live
Novak Djokovic vs Feliciano Lopez Madrid Open match is tentatively scheduled for 2 pm local time, 5.30 pm IST.
Live streaming and TV options can be found below.
- India: TV: Ten 3. Live Streaming: Sony Liv.
- USA: TV: Tennis Channel. Live Streaming: Tennis Channel Live.
- UK: TV: Sky Sports 5. Live streaming: Sky Go.
- Global live stream: Live tennis.
