Low Expectations, High Hopes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nBefore stepping onto the clay courts of Roland Garros, Djokovic set the tone with a mantra: “low expectations and high hopes.” This Zen-like approach reflects his recent performances in Monte-Carlo, Rome, and Geneva. “First matches I played were great. Then second matches, third matches were quite different. So I don’t want to get too excited,” Djokovic explained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Herbert Challenge<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nDjokovic\u2019s 6-4, 7-6(3), 6-4 win against Herbert was anything but a walk in the park. The Frenchman, backed by a vociferous home crowd at Court Philippe-Chatrier, gave Djokovic a run for his money with his kick serve and net game. But as we\u2019ve seen time and time again, Djokovic thrives under pressure. “In the moments when it mattered I think I delivered, played a great tie-break, stayed focused,” Djokovic said, cool as a cucumber.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A Solid Start<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nDespite the challenges, Djokovic described his performance as “solid.” He acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly in return games, but also credited Herbert for his effective serve. “I could have done better, I think, on return games, but also credit to him for serving very well, for changing things up.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving in a Positive Direction<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nDjokovic\u2019s cautious optimism is rooted in his past few tournaments, where initial matches went smoothly, only for the latter stages to present unexpected hurdles. However, his first match at Roland Garros felt different. “Comparing to the previous weeks of tournaments I played, I felt good, better. So I’m moving in a positive direction. It’s just the beginning.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Eyes on the Prize<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhile Djokovic\u2019s mantra of low expectations might sound like sandbagging, it\u2019s a strategic mindset. It helps him stay focused, avoid complacency, and keep the pressure at bay. The Roland Garros title is one of the most coveted in tennis, and Djokovic knows that the road to victory is a marathon, not a sprint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n