Djokovic makes his spiritual home for the Open in NJ

Novak Djokovic will again retreat to a private estate in New Jersey as the Serb seeks his necessary tranquility as he works for a fourth final at what is statistically his worst Grand Slam.

The second seed who is five days removed from a massive defeat of rival Carlos Alcaraz in the Cincinnati final has lost six finals at Flushing Meadows while winning a small handful at the venue.

But the 36-year-old knows that if he is to get a chance at another Grand Slam  trophy to add to his career collection of 23 he will need his peace and quiet away from the most frantic venue in tennis.

“My friend has a beautiful estate there with tennis courts. Just me and my family, we stay there.,” he said.

“We have a relaxing time. It’s great in the off days between the matches, you just kind of recharge, rejuvenate, and you’re able to come out and really have more energy.

“The city is amazing, but after a while it starts being a distraction. When the tournament starts, what you need is the tranquility, just taking things day by day.”

The Serb who at Wimbledon makes visits to a special tree in a local park and a Bhuddist temple, thrives on a zen-like ambience.

“I combine the city with (also urban) New Jersey. Normally before the tournament starts, I’m in the city. 

“Once the tournament starts, we go into full lockdown mode.”