‘Mental, not physical’ – Novak Djokovic confident he knows how to complete calendar slam

Novak Djokovic says ‘handling the expectations’ will be crucial if he is to win the calendar slam at the US Open.

The US Open is the last major the world number one needs if he is to win all four in the same year and achieve something than has not been done for 52 years.

He beat Tallon Griekspoor in straight sets to move into the third round, and he is refusing to get carried away at this stage.

“Probably it’s more mental and emotional, really,” Djokovic said when asked about the biggest difficulty in achieving the calendar slam.

“Physically, I feel great. I can go a couple of hours every day. I don’t mind being on the court for a long time.

“Actually the longer the match goes, I feel I have more chances to win against anybody in best of five.

“So it’s really more about handling everything that is happening off the court, all the expectations.

“But as I’ve said, [it’s] trying to take it moment by moment, really stay in the present moment, and get the most out of it.

“I’m as motivated as ever to do well. I’m not the only player who wants to go deep in the tournament.

“Hopefully, [I’ll] get my hands on the trophy. That’s why I’m here. I’m trying to be the best I can be every single day. Let’s see what happens.”
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