Novak Djokovic issues fitness update, admits elbow is ‘not in ideal shape’ ahead of Srpska Open in Bosnia

Novak Djokovic has admitted his right elbow “is not in ideal shape” ahead of the Srpska Open in Bosnia this week.

However, he has fresh injury concerns over a problem with his elbow, but says he will be fit enough for his Banja Luka Challenger opener against Luca Van Assche.

“Naturally, I wasn’t satisfied with the result in Monte Carlo,” Djokovic said in a press conference on Monday. “But ever since I landed, I’ve felt welcomed in Banja Luka, a lot of positive energy and positive emotions.

“My elbow is not in an ideal shape but good enough to be ready for the first match.

“One of the good things in tennis is that you get a new opportunity to prove your worth every week and take a step forward. I’ve turned over a new leaf.”

Djokovic has been wearing a strap on his right elbow recently, the same elbow he had surgery on back in 2018.

The Serbian will take on 87th-ranked French youngster Luca Van Assche in the second round.

“I don’t know much about the young French player,” Djokovic said of Van Assche. “I thought [Stan] Wawrinka would win the match. I saw [Van Assche] play but not for long, he is a real fighter, fast, it’s difficult to get past him.

“No one should be underestimated.”

The 18-year-old eliminated Stan Wawrinka in the first round to set up a tie with Djokovic and is relishing the challenge.

“It will be incredible for me and I’m only 18,” the Frenchman said. “I know that the crowd will not be with me, I think, but I will enjoy it and I will try to win.”

It’s the first time Djokovic has played a professional tournament of any kind in Bosnia, and local fans were thrilled to catch a glimpse of the 22-time Grand Slam champion in a training session on Monday.

“The people welcome me wholeheartedly with great reception and so much love and support,” Djokovic said.

“So I’m super excited to be here because I think it’s one of the best places for us Serbian tennis players and athletes in general to be able to perform where we have so much love and support from local people.”

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