Sport | Tennis

Novak Djokovic really does have a taste for grass

 
Novak Djokovic
David Smith
5 July 2012

Novak Djokovic is preparing second helpings of Centre Court grass if he overcomes Roger Federer in tomorrow’s semi-final and then retains his title on Sunday.

Djokovic stunned the crowd last summer when he bent down, picked some blades of the hallowed turf, and started chewing on them in celebration of a win over Rafael Nadal which rewarded the Serb with a maiden Wimbledon title.

Ahead of a 27th career clash with Federer but crucially the first against the Swiss on grass, Djokovic recalled: “I did try a little bit of grass last year. I promised myself I would do that. I don’t know if it was a really smart thing to do, it was just a little promise that I made to myself if I won. Who knows, I might do it again this time.”

The 25-year-old has been extended beyond three sets just once over the past 10 days and revealed why he is now so comfortable on grass.

Djokovic revealed: “I’m trying to be more aggressive, and in the important moments go for my serves and shots. This is something that is really important for this surface.

“My mindset is very positive. In a way, I felt relief that I won last year. It was the first tournament I won on a grass court, which hadn’t been my most successful surface. Now I’m feeling great about playing on grass.”

Read More

James Martin's girlfriend seemingly 'confirms' engagement after marriage U-turn

James Martin's girlfriend seemingly 'confirms' engagement after marriage U-turn

Stroke patients get their voice back thanks to new wearable device

Stroke patients get their voice back thanks to new wearable device

Labour facing 'fierce battles' to hold onto 12 London councils in May elections

Labour facing 'fierce battles' to hold onto 12 London councils in May elections

Sponsored
Reset your wellbeing for the year ahead

Reset your wellbeing for the year ahead

Which is just as well, because 30-year-old Federer, seeded three, is so at home here that six of his record 16 Grand Slam singles titles have come at SW19.

Djokovic said: “Roger has great variety, and a really smart game for this surface. He uses his serve very well, he opens up the court, he uses that slice to get the balls to bounce low, he’s very aggressive at times, and he can defend well. I guess grass courts suit his style the most.”

Djokovic is boosted by the knowledge that he has won his last three meetings with Federer, including an epic US Open semi-final last year when he fought back after conceding the two opening sets.

“Most of the matches we play go the distance,” he said. “We have a lot of experience of playing each other on the big stage, and there will be a lot on the line this time, too.”