Djokovic confident he can whip wrist problem into shape for AO

Novak Djokovic is convinced that he has enough time to deal with the wrist problem which contributed to Serbia’s exit from the quarter-finals of the mixed team United Cup in Perth.

The 24-time Grand Slam winner who had won 43 straight matches in Australia was stunned by Australia Alex de Minaur in a 6-4 6-4 victory which sent the hosts to the business end of the event which has shifted to Sydney. 

Djokovic injured his wrist this week in training but tried to play through the problem when he took on de Minaur.

“I was not on my level, it was just one of these days where you didn’t feel your best,” Djokovic said. “Your opponent played very well. That’s all I can say.

 “I think I have enough time to get myself in the right shape for the Australian Open, and that’s what matters the most at this point.

“I knew I was not going to be at my 100 per cent physically, emotionally, mentally game-wise in the opening week of a season. 

“It’s all a part of the buildup for the Australian Open, that’s where I want to perform at my best.”