It hasn’t been the ideal start Novak Djokovic would have wanted to his 2022 ATP season. The month of January was chaotic for the Serb, to say the least. After being deported from Australia and denied a chance to participate in the ‘Happy Slam’, the Serbian player returned home and spent time with his family before announcing his decision to play the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.

There is still no clarity on his participation at Indian Wells and Monte Carlo Masters. Both events have strict guidelines set for players to follow and from what we have seen in Australia, Djokovic might have to sit out these two tournaments if he decides to remain unvaccinated.

Novak Djokovic trains a 12-year-old aspirant at his tennis center in Belgrade

Amidst all the off-court drama, the World No.1 is finding peace at his tennis center as he is getting in shape to play in Dubai and also practiced with upcoming aspirants from the center. Earlier today, the Serbian star could be seen hitting with the 12-year-old Lana Agbaba where he shared insights on achieving the best output from baseline.

The 2o-time Grand Slam champion went to the other side of the net and practiced forehand and backhand drives with the young girl while providing inputs over the same. Later, he could be seen giving a detailed explanation on approaching the net and hitting a volley.

Towards the end of the session, the Serbian star discussed forehand stance with the young aspirant as she intently listened to the champion. Amidst all the uncertainty surrounding his 2022 ATP season, Djokovic seems to have gone back to the basics and is trying to focus on what makes him happy, which is playing tennis.

Talking about his comeback, Djokovic enters Dubai as the top seed. The tournament’s initial entry list includes the likes of Andrey Rublev, Jannik Sinner, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Hubert Hurkacz, etc., Andy Murray will also feature in the event after being granted a wild card by the organizers.

The Serbian star is also present in the initial entry list for Masters 1000 event in Indian Wells, but it’s unlikely he will fly to California owing to the vaccination guidelines.

Also read: Novak Djokovic Will Be Welcomed at This Masters 1000 Event Only If He Follows the Rules, Confirms Director