Novak Djokovic reveals huge ambitions to pip Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in Cincinnati
NOVAK DJOKOVIC says he wants to complete the Golden Masters at the sixth time of asking.
Djokovic has won eight of the nine ATP 1000 events and only needs to add the Cincinnati title to his name to complete the set.
Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray have only won seven of the illustrious tournaments so Djokovic is hoping to become the first man of all time to complete the accomplishment.
The Serbian booked his place in the third round with a 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 victory against Adrian Mannarino this afternoon.
However, he has lost all five previous final appearances in Ohio so he is keen to put the record right this time around.
“I have been trying to win the Cincinnati tournament for over a decade,” Djokovic said.
“I have had five finals here and I couldn’t make it on the last hurdle.
“But I will keep on trying.
“I am still in the tournament and hopefully I can complete the Masters this year.”
Djokovic had a nightmare 12 months which came to an end with his 13th Grand Slam title at Wimbledon last month.
However, he claims to still feel slightly uncomfortable on the hard courts.
“To compare any season, I don’t pay too much attention to that,” Djokovic added.
“It is different circumstances. I have changed the racket, I have had surgery this year and I have had to make some modifications to my game.
“Obviously on grass court it was phenomenal but on hard court I am still feeling a bit rusty and am still finding my rhythm and confidence level is there but I still know I can play better.
“You have got to work hard and work smart and hope for the best.”