Novak Djokovic confirmed small changes to his racket at the ATP Masters 1000 in Monte Carlo. The adjustments were already made under the aegis of coach Andre Agassi/Radek Stepanek and should bring the “Djoker” back into the top league similar to Roger Federer a few years ago. What can the material change do?
“I changed my bat a few weeks ago,” said Djokovic. Together with his ex-trainers, he made this decision “with a view to the big picture”. “The longer I play, the better I feel.”
The Serb did not want to give details of the changes. It is obvious, however, that in the scheme of his stringing from 20 cross strands and 18 longitudinal strands before, he now relies on a 19-to-18 arrangement.
“They are minimal changes, but they are very significant in our world,” Djokovic said. “Every now and then you can improve parts of your game using technology. It was a big decision for me.”
In general, more open stringing means more spin is transferred to the ball, allowing for more controlled strokes. However, the more important effect is that Djokovic with a cross-strand requires less effort on average to bring speed into the balls.
“It feels like I suddenly have more strength, especially on impact,” said Nole. Probably the Serb wants to relieve his elbow, which caused him some worries, especially in the past season.
Experts also assume that Djokovic’s new machine is a little more top-heavy and has a slightly thicker frame. Both aspects are further indicators of a gentler playing style that requires less effort.
At first, however, the new playground only brought about a limited improvement. In Monte Carlo, Djokovic suffered a three-set defeat against Dominic Thiem in round three. But the former world number one is aware that it will take some time to familiarize himself with the new racquet.
“Roger Federer also switched to another club a few years ago, and it took him a few months to get used to it,” Djokovic said.
Djokovic was generally satisfied with the performance shown. “I played good tennis,” he said. “Of course I have to be patient, believe in the trial and my team. If I trust in my game, I can come back.”
Despite all the changes in material issues, however, the 30-year-old noted that health was paramount. “That’s the most important thing,” Djokovic said. “If I’m not thrown off track by a big injury, I can definitely get back to my desired level.”
After the separation from Agassi and Stepanek, Djokovic will be relying on his old coach, Marian Vajda, in the next few weeks. “I need match practice,” said Djokovic. “That’s why we chose to take every opportunity to play.”
The next opportunity will be next week, where Djokovic will serve in the main competition in Barcelona thanks to a wild card. With a new racket.
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