• French Open

Djokovic ready to challenge Nadal at French Open

ESPN staff
May 24, 2014
Novak Djokovic reached the French Open final in 2012 © Getty Images
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Novak Djokovic is "motivated and inspired" to win the French Open and become the eighth man to complete the career Grand Slam.

The world No.2 has been beaten by Rafael Nadal in each of the last two years, losing in the final and the semi-final to the reigning eight-time champion.

Nadal has a target on his back in Paris

Rafael Nadal is seeking a ninth French Open © Getty Images
  • Chris Wilkinson believes Novak Djokovic could dethrone Rafael Nadal at the French Open to complete a career Grand Slam.
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After defeating Nadal last week to win the Rome Masters, Djokovic has his eyes on becoming a winner at Roland Garros for the first time and ending the successful run of Nadal in Paris.

"Knowing that I have gotten closer and closer each year to the title gives me enough reason to be confident for the start of this year," Djokovic said.

"It's a Grand Slam. It's a two-week long event, best-of-five [sets], and there is a feeling that almost all of the players who are participating in the event have an extra motivation to perform well."

Six-time major winner Djokovic says Nadal is the favourite to retain his crown, but after toppling the Spaniard in Rome is confident of challenging the world No.1 for this year's trophy.

"Winning against Nadal on clay is something that doesn't happen every day," Djokovic said, who has beaten Nadal in their last four encounters.

"The tournament win in Rome came at the right moment for me. For my confidence level it's definitely a booster and a positive thing. Hopefully I can carry that confidence coming into Roland Garros…I'm healthy and obviously very motivated and inspired to play my best tennis here."

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