Djokovic still human but game is out of this world

By Steve Keating

MONTREAL (Reuters) - Novak Djokovic has been out of this world this season but the world number one says he is still just flesh and blood.

"I am human, I can definitely assure you of that," laughed Djokovic.

"I've been playing incredible tennis this year," added the Serb, who won the Australian Open and Wimbledon and became the first to capture five Masters Series events in a single season.

"I'm aware of the fantastic year that I've had and a great streak but I'm not thinking how many matches will I lose? I'm thinking how many matches will I win?"

While Djokovic has hovered near the top of the rankings for several years, finishing number three in the world the last four seasons, his transformation into the sport's dominant force has been both sudden and surprising.

In one of the most impressive tennis seasons on record, Djokovic's one and only loss was at the hands of Roger Federer in the French Open semi-final.

Despite his sensational record this season, his rivals know he can be beaten.

"He plays incredible tennis but he's not an alien," said Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, after retiring with a sore arm in his Montreal semi-final against Djokovic. "He doesn't hit harder, he doesn't hit the ball earlier. But he's always there.

"He does not have the best return on the Tour. But on every return, he returns well, and he's always there. So what does it is his consistency, and he has no weaknesses."

MENTAL TOUGHNESS

Djokovic points to a new diet as a big part of his success but according to most observers the real difference in his game appears to be his attitude and mental toughness. The 24-year-old seems more willing to gut out close contests and do what it takes to win.

"Every knock he's answered 10-fold this year," said Fish. "It's been incredibly impressive.

"To win Indian Wells and Miami back-to-back is incredible. Then the two clay court events, I mean, no one thought that that could be possible. He did it with straight sets both times. Pretty incredible."

"I will be probably one of the favorites," said Djokovic. "This is nothing different from what I have experienced in Grand Slams in last couple of years. Being one of the top players, you always have these expectations.

"My approach will not be different that's for sure for this Grand Slam. I will try to win every match I play on, not change any routine that I have.

"There is plenty of motivation and desire to continue on and play well and win matches and win tournaments." (Editing by Peter Rutherford; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)