Djokovic admits Federer tensions early in career

AFP | Melbourne                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Novak Djokovic has opened up on how he riled Roger Federer when he broke onto the scene as a cocky upstart but said it only fired up his quest to become the best player in the world.

The Serbian world number one is gunning for a historic 25th Grand Slam in Melbourne, where he has already won the title 10 times.

Djokovic is already the most-decorated player in the men’s game, with two more majors under his belt than the injured Rafael Nadal and four ahead of the retired Federer, fellow members of the socalled “Big Three”.

The 36-year-old enjoyed a storied rivalry with the Swiss great, winning 27 of the 50 matches they played. He is gunning for an 11th Australian Open in Melbourne to pull clear of Margaret Court, who also has 24 Grand Slam singles crowns.

On Friday, Djokovic coasted past 30th-seed Tomas Martin Etcheverry in his 100th match at the tournament, looking close to his best after patchy performances in the opening two rounds.

He was asked after his victory on Rod Laver Arena to reflect on his early career as he sought to challenge the established powers in the game.