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Novak Djokovic hit his stride right before the French Open, winning his first title of the year at the Italian Open.
In an interview with Marca, former World No. 1 Mats Wilander said Novak Djokovic was the favorite for Roland Garros given the form he showed in Rome. He also feels that after being unable to defend his title in Melbourne, Djokovic will likely be motivated by "revenge" in Paris.
"For many reasons I have to say Novak (Djokovic). First because he has just won Rome and that will give him confidence; then because I think he has within him a feeling of revenge after everything that has happened to him in recent months... Not being able to play the Australian Open. He is the defender of the crown," he said.
Djokovic will be hunting for his third French Open title and a record-equalling 21st Grand Slam crown. Nadal's chances of winning an unprecedented 14th French Open were put in jeopardy by a foot injury he aggravated during his match against Denis Shapovalov in Rome.
"He has proven to himself that he can return to playing long matches" - Mats Wilander on Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic endured a turbulent start to the season as he wasn't allowed to participate in tournaments due to his unvaccinated status. He missed the first Major of the year Down Under and was unable to participate in the Sunshine Double as well.
When Djokovic did return to action, he looked rusty and lost in the early rounds at Dubai and Monte-Carlo. But he gained much-needed court time at the Serbia Open en route to the final, which may have significantly helped him with his fitness.
The Serb looked to be in vintage form at the Italian Open and will thus be the heavy favorite to win the French Open.
According to Mats Wilander, the World No. 1 has shaken off any fitness concerns he had over the last few weeks.
"He has proven to himself that he can return to playing long matches despite the defeat to Alcaraz in Madrid. In Monte Carlo he gave a bad impression at the end of his match with Davidovich, he looked tired. Now he's better and he appears to be. He is the favorite in Paris," the Swede said.
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