Andy Murray absence 'won't impact' Djokovic as tennis star sets sights on remarkable Madrid Open landmark
Novak Djokovic insist he is still "motivated" to compete at the highest level despite the absence of Andy Murray on the tennis court.
The Scots tennis star retired from tennis after last year's Olympics and was announced as the Serbian's new coach in November.
In an interview with the Telegraph, former rival Rafael Nadal admitted Murray "surprised" him by taking the coaching role while admitting the pair make a "good combination".
The 24-time Grand Slam winner is now preparing to play at the Madrid Open for the first time since 2022, with his first match taking place on Friday.
Djokovic had stated many times last year that he was lacking the desire to compete in regular ATP Tour events, with his focus mainly on Grand Slam tournaments.
Despite this, Djokovic played in a tour event in Qatar in February, Indian Wells, Miami Masters and the Monte Carlo Masters.
He is currently training in Madrid with coach Murray alongside him and was asked by Eurosport Spain if the retirement of his great rivals - Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Murray - had killed his motivation to play at the highest level.
"If I'm not motivated, I'm not here. I don't play anymore. I put the racket to rest," Djokovic responded.
"I still feel the desire to play, the passion to compete is always there. I hope to push harder. The Grand Slams are tournaments where I have more motivation to do well."
If he triumphs in Madrid, Murray will have helped Djokovic win a 100th title of his remarkable career - third behind Jimmie Connors (109) and Federer (103).
When asked about his chances Madrid, he added: "I'm always optimistic, but I don't know if I'm one of the favourites because I'm not having very good results this year," he added.
"The level I'm looking for could come here or at Roland Garros, I hope it will be here.
"I always have very good feelings when I return to Madrid, to Spain. It's a country I love very much. I've won the Madrid Open three times in my career, with extraordinary matches against Nadal and [Carlos] Alcaraz.
"I've played little here in the last six to seven years, but I missed the Spanish public, because they know the sport well and respect tennis a lot. I have a good feeling and I hope to have a good tournament."
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