I'M ON A GOOD ROUTE TO PEAK AT ROLAND GARROS: NOVAK DJOKOVIC

NEW DELHI: In order to be ready for the second Grand Slam of the year, Novak Djokovic, the world number one, skipped last month's Madrid Masters and arrived early in Rome. However, he stated he is getting ready to defend his French Open title.

The record 24-time Grand Slam champion is still chasing his first title of the year. The Serb last participated in the Monte Carlo Masters in April, where he was defeated by Casper Ruud in the semi-finals.

The 37-year-old, who is currently training with former doubles world number one Nenad Zimonjic after splitting with longtime coach Goran Ivanisevic, expressed satisfaction with his progress ahead of Roland Garros, which begins on May 26.

"I had plenty of time to also rest and train. I had a good training block. I arrived (in Rome) two days ago to get a hit on the centre court, obviously stay four-five days training before my first match with top players," Djokovic told reporters.

"Obviously it's different when you train with them, playing practice sets, seeing where your game is at and working your way towards the fine form for the first official match.

"I think I'm on a good route to peak at Roland Garros in Paris. Hopefully here in Rome I can play better than I did in Monte Carlo." Djokovic also parted ways with fitness coach Marco Panichi and said he had rehired Gebhard Gritsch as he targets success in the Grand Slams and the Paris Olympics.

"We know each other really well. That's why I feel we're synchronised from the very beginning in terms of what we want to do, how we want to approach the programme of training on and off the court. With Nenad as well," Djokovic added.

"I'm pleased with the way the last 10-14 days went in terms of training, in terms of preparation and looking ahead to this tournament, but particularly Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the Olympic Games."

(With Reuters inputs)