Djokovic back near his best with ominous Tel Aviv Open win: "I hadn’t played a tournament in three months, so it was really extra motivation for me"

Novak Djokovic won his 3rd trophy of the year in Tel Aviv by beating Marin Cilic in two sets sending a warning ahead of Astana.

The Serbian player is clearly nearing his best with the wrist issue largely in the past as well. It was a significant win for Djokovic who talked about how important this event was for him, even more so because he is in Astana next week.

That event is an ATP 500 event that will feature a super strong field with Medvedev, Tsitsipas, Alcaraz and many more in attendance. Speaking after his Tel Aviv win, Djokovic said:

“My approach is to win tournaments wherever I am and I’m glad that I have a team of people around me that makes sure that I am in the best shape in order to be a contender to win titles. That’s why I came to Israel, was to try to win the title. First time playing here [since a] Davis Cup tie more than 15 years ago, so it was a really amazing experience.”

He added:

“I played some very good tennis, I think. I [didn’t] drop a set the entire week. I hadn’t played a tournament in three months, so it was really extra motivation for me to really do well, particularly because people have been so friendly and so supportive of me throughout the week. I’m taking some great confidence into next week as well.”