Djokovic has not had the best start to the clay court season and is yet to win a match on the red dirt. He pulled out of Rome, but has accepted a wild card into the Geneva ATP 250.
Why has Djokovic said no to an ATP 1000 and opted for a smaller ATP 250? I think there are several reasons.
Giving himself time
He has more time to prepare before Geneva. Rome is already underway and Geneva starts on the 17th, most likely the 19th for Djokovic. Giving him more time for other duties, practice, spending time with family and so on. This makes a lot of sense since he has always been able to turn it on at a Grand Slam with minimum preparation. Still, he would like to win a match or two before he goes to Paris.
The second reason is exactly that, he will have an easier draw in Geneva than in Rome. He has lost lacklustre matches in straight sets in Monte Carlo (Tabilo) and Madrid (Arnaldi) and these guys are difficult opponents, especially on clay. He will most likely not face that kind of opposition in his first matches in Geneva. This will give him the opportunity to find his game and maybe rack up some wins and confidence before going to Paris.
Even if he wins two matches and loses the semis, as an example, this will give him some match practice and some wins before the French Open.
Novak knows what he is doing
Novak is a smart guy and he knows exactly where his game is and what he needs to have a chance at winning his 25th slam at Roland Garros. I think this decision shows maturity and planning and it will be interesting to follow in what mindset and form he shows up in Geneva and Paris.
Do you think Djokovic has a chance to win his record-breaking 25th slam at the French Open? With his track record, he is one of the favorites, but he is currently in fourth place according to the bookies. Last time I checked the French Open betting odds, a Djokovic win gives you 12 times your money, a Zverev win gives you 9, a Sinner bet 3.5 and Alcaraz is the top favorite at 2.5 times your bet if he wins.
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