Novak Djokovic is doing everything he can to prove to the world that he is still capable of competing at the highest level, despite the rise of numerous young talents and advancing age. The Serbian legend has shown a very fluctuating tennis in this first segment of the 2025 season, with some really interesting flashes (at the Australian Open and Miami Open) alternating with some quite surprising defeats.

His performance against Alejandro Tabilo in the second round of the Monte Carlo Masters 1000 worried fans of the 37-year-old from Belgrade, although the first huge event of the red clay season has never been particularly favorable to Nole in the latter part of his career.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion needs time to fully adapt to this surface and it is for this reason that he has decided to participate in the Mutua Madrid Open this year as well. The fourth Masters 1000 of the season is played in different conditions than the other tournaments on red clay, including Roland Garros, but it certainly represents a good opportunity for Djokovic to regain confidence and perhaps win his 100th title.

Djokovic very angry

There is no doubt that the absence of Carlos Alcaraz – who had to forfeit due to an adductor injury in his right leg – is good news for Novak, who will be called upon to play his best tennis from the first rounds.

However – during his latest practice session with the young French star Arthur Fils – the former world number 1 seemed very nervous and at one point exclaimed: ‘Fuck sport, tennis and everything’.

It is not clear why the Serbian champion is frustrated, as he is practicing well at Caja Magica these days and won practice sets against both Auger-Aliassime and Fils.

Nole’s first opponent in the Spanish capital will be the Italian ace Matteo Arnaldi – number 44 in the ATP ranking – who defeated Borna Coric in the first round after a tough battle.