NOVAK FACES MENTAL HURDLE

SERENA Williams’ former coach believes Novak Djokovic will carry “big emotional baggage” into this year’s Australian Open.

Djokovic was infamously deported from Australia in 2022 for his refusal to be vaccinated against Covid-19, but a change in biosecurity laws paved the way for his return to the country.

After winning his opening singles match in Adelaide on Tuesday, Djokovic expressed gratitude to the crowd for its warm reception, admitting he had been nervous about how they would receive him.

Speaking to Eurosport, Patrick Mouratoglou said Djokovic still faced barriers to claim his 10th Australian Open crown.

“It‘s going to be tough for Novak in Australia, that’s for sure,” he said.

“He going to carry a big emotional baggage. He‘s been through so much, emotionally speaking. Nobody is immune.

“It’s going to be hard. I hope he doesn‘t fall apart like he did at the US Open 2021 because there was too much. But it comes after probably a period where he has had a lot of rest.”

Djokovic’s 2021 US Open campaign saw him aiming for the coveted calendar slam – winning all four majors in the same calendar year – but the former world number one was visibly overwhelmed with emotion as he fell to Daniil Medvedev in the final in straight sets.

While Djokovic could not compete in the US Open last year due to vaccination requirements, the 35-year-old stormed to victory in the ATP Finals in November, going undefeated in five matches.

“It‘s the pre-season, it’s the off-season and there’s no stress of competition. So he’s going to be emotionally rested, which is good,” Mouratoglou said.