Novak Djokovic suggests how well he’s expecting to perform at the Monte-Carlo Masters as he switches to clay courts

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Novak Djokovic switches his focus from hard courts to clay, taking on the Monte-Carlo Masters after only just losing the Miami Open final.

Djokovic is set for a record 18th Monte-Carlo Masters appearance, having won the tournament on two occasions.

Former ATP number one Djokovic triumphed in 2013 and 2015, as well as losing the 2009 and 2012 finals to Rafael Nadal.

Nadal’s 11 Monte-Carlo Masters titles are more than any other player, with Carlos Alcaraz potentially capable of shining on clay and taking over from his compatriot.

Djokovic heads to Monaco after his Miami Open final defeat to Jakub Mensik, with the former once again just falling short of a 100th ATP title.

Novak Djokovic does not have high expectations for Monte-Carlo Masters

The Serbian has, however, been inspired by that run, with Djokovic sharing insight into his motivation levels ahead of his next event.

“There is no doubt that it has become more difficult throughout my career but the performances in Miami, when I am playing that way, it gives me more inspiration to keep going,” he said.

READ MORE: Martina Navratilova reacts to what Novak Djokovic said about Jakub Mensik right after losing their Miami Open final

“It just feels great on the court when you are striking the ball well and winning matches. Obviously when you start losing early you have more questions and inner voices, which are bringing doubts about whether you should keep going.

“I am glad in Miami I found that joy on the court and performance levels, so let’s see if I can carry that into clay.

“It is a different surface and I have not had much time to get used to this tournament so my expectations are not that high.

“We spoke about Miami. A bit of a bitter feeling in the end to lose the final, but it was high-quality from me.

“Served great, played well. I was just a bit unlucky in the final – two tie-breaks – but he was better. That is all.

“It gives me a great deal of encouragement and positivity reflecting on my game and how I played in Miami.”

Novak Djokovic shares Monte Carlo Masters agreement with Andy Murray

Djokovic has, of course, relied on the knowledge and experience of his former rival Andy Murray in recent times.

The former has brought the latter onto his coaching team, and has often turned to the Scot during matches.

READ MORE: What Novak Djokovic said about Jakub Mensik just last week already looks incredibly accurate after he wins the Miami Open final

Murray has been animated in Djokovic’s box, and the pair have seemingly been enjoying their time together.

But he won’t be present at the Monte Carlo Masters, with the three-time Grand Slam champion expected to return in Madrid later this month.

Sharing insight into their deal, Djokovic said: “It was never part of the agreement to work with Andy this week.

“I was thinking about who I wanted anyone apart from my fitness coach and physio and my brother Marko was able to join me so that helps me on a different level emotionally. Have some time with my brother and spend some time with him on the road.”