Djokovic Motivated To Surpass Federer

Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic admits he still has “far” to go to overhaul Roger Federer but that is now a motivation for him.

Novak Djokovic (9/4 – 2019 French Open Outright) has set his sights on surpassing Roger Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam titles following his triumph in the Australian Open final.

The Serbian claimed a record seventh title at Melbourne Park after blowing away Rafael Nadal 6-3 6-2 6-3 in Sunday’s showpiece and he has now won three successive Grand Slams following his triumphs at Wimbledon (Djokovic 13/8 fav – Wimbledon 2019 Outright) and the US Open last season.

Djokovic has also taken his overall tally of Grand Slam successes to 15, a total that leaves him just two behind Nadal and five off Federer’s record total of 20.

The 31-year-old feels he can still improve further over the coming years and he knows he will need to stay fit and on form if he is to have a realistic chance of surpassing Federer.

“I am aware that making history of the sport that I truly love is something special,” Djokovic told reporters.

“Of course, it motivates me. How many seasons are to come? I don’t know. I’m not trying to think too much in advance.

“I do want to definitely focus myself on continuing to improve my game and maintaining the overall well-being that I have – mental, physical and emotional – so I would be able to compete at such a high level for the years to come, and have a shot at eventually getting closer to Roger’s record. It’s still far.”

Djokovic’s next chance to add to his Grand Slam tally will come at the French Open in May, although he has enjoyed only limited success at Roland Garros in the past, claiming his only victory to date when beating Andy Murray in the 2016 final.

Odds subject to change.