The 2023 clay court season has officially started with the Monte Carlo Masters. For all 2023 French Open title contenders, this tournament, along with the others in the clay-court swing, is a way to prepare to cope with the different aspects of playing on the red dirt. World No. 1 Novak Djokovic, despite being 36 years old, is still hungry for more titles and is on the lookout for a third French Open win.

In a recent interview, the Serbian tennis powerhouse revealed what he felt going into the clay court season. He also shed some light on his feelings about the absence of Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz at the Monte Carlo Masters.

Nadal’s absence is both a loss and an opportunity, claims Novak Djokovic

Injury forced Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz to withdraw from the Monte Carlo Masters draw. According to Djokovic, the absence of Rafael Nadal is especially significant.

In the Serbian’s interview with Tennis Majors, Djokovic said, “Of course, in one way it’s a loss for the tournament and for tennis in general, because he’s by far the most successful clay court tennis player of all time.” However, Djokovic also went on to say that Nadal’s absence is “an opportunity”.

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Over the course of his career, Nadal has amassed a whopping 14 French Open titles. It’s a record that’s unlikely to be beaten soon. However, according to Djokovic, the King of Clay’s withdrawal from Monte Carlo is an incentive for him. He believes that it’s a chance for him and others to “go far and grab a title.”

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Why did Rafael Nadal withdraw from the Monte Carlo masters?

Nadal’s last competitive tennis game came at the Australian Open in January. Nadal lost to American Mackenzie McDonald in straight sets in the second round. Following his exit, the Spaniard underwent an MRI scan, which revealed a psoas muscle tear. His doctors predicted that it would take him around 6 to 8 weeks to recover from the injury.

In a tweet on April 4, Nadal said, “I’m still not ready to compete at the highest level. I will not be able to play in one of the most important tournaments of my career.” He went on to say, “I am not yet in a position to play with the maximum guarantees, and I continue my preparation process, hoping to return soon.” (Google Translate)

For Djokovic and others, Nadal’s absence is likely to be more of a boon and less of a loss. However, only time will tell if Nadal can make it to the 2023 French Open.

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