ROLAND GARROS

June 1, 2022

Novak Djokovic

Press Conference

R. NADAL/N. Djokovic

6-2, 4-6, 6-2, 7-6

THE MODERATOR: Questions in English.

Q. Great fight against Nadal. Could you just walk us through the moments that went to the match, how you were feeling.

NOVAK DJOKOVIC: Well, congratulations to Nadal. He was a better player I think in important moments. Started very well. You know, I didn't start so great, 6-2, 3-Love, double break down. I was gaining momentum as I was coming back in the second set, managed to win the second set, and I thought, okay, you know, I'm back in the game.

But then he had another two, three fantastic games at the beginning of the third. He was just able to take his tennis to another level in those, particularly moments at the beginning of all sets, actually, except the fourth.

I had my chances. You know, I had my chances in the fourth. Served for the set, couple set points.

Yeah, just one or two shots. Could have taken me into a fifth. Then it's really anybody's match.

But again, he showed why he's a great champion. You know, staying there mentally tough and finishing the match the way he did. Congrats to him and his team. No doubt he deserved it.

Q. A lot of criticism tonight about these late-night matches. Do you think you should be playing a match going on 1:00 in Paris? What is your view on this particular nighttime scheduling?

NOVAK DJOKOVIC: I mean, there are difference of opinions about the night sessions. I think they are starting too late, to be honest. But again, TV decides. That's the world we are living in. Broadcasters say it's going to be night match, day match. They give the money. They decide.

Q. During the second set, you were often smiling at yourself, talking to yourself. Could you just say what emotions were going through your mind at that point?

NOVAK DJOKOVIC: You don't want to know (smiling). Many, many different emotions.

But, look, in a match like this, you know, you go through highs and lows in your game, but also emotionally.

Look, you know, I gave my best. You know, I know I could have played better. I'm proud of fighting and staying till the last shot.

As I said, you know, I lost to a better player today. Had my chances. Didn't use them. That's it.

You know, over four hours' battle, and I have to accept this defeat.

Q. Are you a bit surprised about the physical condition of Rafa Nadal at this moment after all these injury problems, the history in Australia, and now another one in Rome, the problems?

NOVAK DJOKOVIC: I didn't see any problems.

Q. No, but are you surprised with the physical condition?

NOVAK DJOKOVIC: No, I'm not.

Q. How he can play after a five-set match.

NOVAK DJOKOVIC: No, I'm not surprised at all. It's not the first time that he, you know, is able to few days after he's injured and barely walking to come out 100% physically fit. You know, he's done it many times in his career, so I'm not surprised.