“I’m probably going to have to step back a few steps for that first serve” : Novak Djokovic on facing Reilly Opelka in Brisbane quarterfinals
Novak Djokovic has cruised into the quarterfinals of the Brisbane Open following his straight sets victory over Gael Monfils on Thursday. The Serbian extended his dominance over the Frenchman with his victory, as the head to head now stands at 20-0.
Novak Djokovic was delighted to have his entire family in Australia this time around, as he starts his bid to claim an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title. The 37-year-old defeated Gael Monfils 6-3, 6-3 to setup a quarterfinal clash with Reilly Opelka.
Novak Djokovic was wary about the threat Reilly Opelka brings, given that he is among the biggest serves in the game. He stated that both of them share a very friendly relationship off court, as they lock horns for the first time in their career on Friday.
“It’s a first time for me to have my family ‘down under’; it’s a very long trip, but they came here to be with me and support me, and we’re spending a lot of quality time off the court together. My heart is full, and it allows me to play my best tennis,” said Djokovic.
“We have some big servers in the tournament. Super tall guys. They could have been top-class basketball players if they’d chosen to do that. Incredible strength and power. Opelka has been injured; a couple of years he has struggled a lot. A great guy off the court, we get along very well. I don’t know if we’ve ever faced each other.“
Novak Djokovic wary of Reilly Opelka’s threat in the quarterfinals
Novak Djokovic joked that he would have to step back on Reilly Opelka’s serve, given the pace and bounce he is able to generate. The Serbian hopes to continue his good form, and secure a win over the American.
“This is going to be the first encounter. My gosh, I’m probably going to have to step back a few steps for that first serve. Completely different match-up to the one I had tonight. I’ll do my best to get ready and hopefully get a win.”
Novak Djokovic is seeded first in Brisbane, and is the favorite to win the title this week. However, he will have to face some tricky opponents on his way to the title. Reilly Opelka has also been in good form this week, securing a straight sets victory over Matteo Arnaldi in the last 16 clash. The American won both the sets in a tiebreaker, serving 25 aces in the match.
Novak Djokovic has appointed his former rival Andy Murray as his new coach for the upcoming season. The Briton is expected to join his camp in the week before the 2025 Australian Open. The duo have played some spectacular tennis in Melbourne over the course of their respective careers, and only time will tell if Murray’s experience can help the Serbian in winning his 25th major title.
