World number two Novak Djokovic continues his quest to end the year as world number one by participating in a string of Asian tournaments including the China Open 2012 which began on Monday. Djokovic, winner of this event in 2009 and 2010, is looking to add 500 more points in his ranking points to narrow down the lead of world number one Roger Federer. Federer, is keeping himself low key at the moment, participating in just one Asian tournament – the Shanghai Masters which begins later this month.
Djokovic said that three weeks of rest seemed to be a “very long gap” for tennis players. The Serbian star has not participated in any events since losing the US Open final match against Andy Murray last
“I am excited about tomorrow’s match. I’m ready to play. I want to play,” he said. He will be facing German qualifier Michael Berrer in the opening round.
Djokovic relinquished the world number one ranking after the Wimbledon tournament. Swiss star Roger Federer went on to win his 17th Grand Slam title at the All England Club and beat Djokovic, the defending champion, in the semifinals thereby gaining enough points to return to the top of the world rankings.
“It is still open, the No. 1 spot of the world,” Djokovic said.
“Obviously I will try to dedicate myself and focus on every tournament that I play. I try not to think about what’s going to happen at the end of the season because there is still more than a few tournaments to go here in Asia and then the indoor season in Europe. Everything is possible, but I will try to not think about calculations, not think about any other players’ results, and just concentrate on my own game.” he added.
