Novak Djokovic’s French Open preparation has stalled with a fresh injury

Novak Djokovic says he’s still struggling with an elbow problem as he tries to get his French Open preparations back on track after his early elimination at the Monte Carlo Masters ahead of this week’s Srpska Open.

Djokovic suffered a third-round loss to Lorenzo Musetti in Monte Carlo last week, the 22-time Grand Slam champion’s serve being broken eight times by the Italian.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: The crowd turns against Novak Djokovic after a controversial call at the Monte Carlo Masters.

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“My elbow isn’t in ideal shape, but it’s good enough to be ready for the first game,” Djokovic told reporters.

“One of the good things about tennis is that every week you get a new opportunity to prove yourself and take a step forward. I have opened a new leaf.

“Of course I wasn’t satisfied with the result in Monte Carlo. But since I landed I feel welcome in Banja Luka, with a lot of positive energy and positive emotions.”

Djokovic meets 18-year-old Luca Van Assche in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday after the Frenchman secured a 1-6, 7-6 (7-4), 6-4 win over the three-time Grand Slam Achieved Champion Stan Wawrinka.

“I don’t know much about the young Frenchman,” said Djokovic.

“I thought Wawrinka would win the match. I saw (Van Assche) play but not for long, he’s a real fighter, fast, it’s difficult to get past him. Nobody should be underestimated.”

Van Assche, who is ranked No. 87 in the world, said it was a privilege to play against Djokovic.

“Novak is a true champion. Not just in tennis, but in sport in general,” he added. “It’s going to be an incredible match. I know that I have to give everything to win.”

The French Open, the second Grand Slam of the season, starts on May 28th.