Djokovic Visualizes Winning Record 25th Grand Slam

By: Gyang Dakwo

Novak Djokovic said he’s “looking forward” to the chance of winning a record-breaking 25th grand slam singles title at the French Open this year.

Speaking after winning a joint-record fifth Laureus World Sportsman of the Year trophy on Monday, Djokovic said he has visualized the moment of becoming the most successful singles player – men’s or women’s – in history.

The Serbian superstar has won 24 grand slam singles titles to date – the most of any man – and currently shares the all-time record with Margaret Court. He will have the chance to break the record when the French Open starts on May 20.

“You take nothing but the win, that’s the mentality. You kind of visualise yourself achieving that already. So I’ve been, you know, really looking forward to it,” Djokovic said.

“Of course I’m not the only one that wants to grab that title but I look forward to it. I like competing with different generations. You have the young guys who are coming up…they’re all incredibly hungry and fit and fast.

“But I use my adaptability to adjust my tactics and my game to them and understand really what it takes, you know, what it takes to stay at the top and compete with these guys and try to win more titles.”

Despite turning 37 later this year, Djokovic said he has no plans of slowing down and is not close to contemplating retirement.

The focus, he said, is very much on the next tournament, rather than looking back on his achievements.

“I feel like it’s so important to always remind yourself to be in the present moment, really to appreciate, to acknowledge, to remember where you came from, the journey, the path, also the people that surround you,” Djokovic said.