Djokovic Declares Nadal as French Open Favorite Despite Fitness Concerns

Novak Djokovic, the world's top-ranked tennis player, has declared Rafael Nadal as his favorite to win the upcoming French Open despite Nadal's recent fitness struggles. Djokovic, who is preparing for the second Grand Slam of the year at the Geneva Open, believes that Nadal's unparalleled record at Roland-Garros makes him the frontrunner.

"When you talk about Roland-Garros and Nadal is there, he is always the biggest favorite for me," Djokovic said. "After everything he has done on the courts at Roland-Garros, it's normal, respectfully to put him as the biggest favorite."

Djokovic acknowledged that Nadal's level of play has declined slightly due to injuries, but he emphasized that the Spaniard's experience and dominance on clay make him a formidable opponent. "Obviously it's a little different with his level of play," Djokovic said. "But it's Roland-Garros, and it's Nadal."

Djokovic also identified other contenders for the French Open title, including Casper Ruud, Alexander Zverev, Andrey Rublev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas. However, he believes that Nadal's legacy and familiarity with the surface give him an edge.

"This year is more open," Djokovic said. "But when you talk about Roland-Garros and Nadal is there, he is always the biggest favorite for me."

Djokovic, who turns 37 on Wednesday, is seeking to regain his form ahead of the French Open. He has not won a title in the season so far and is using the Geneva Open as a warm-up.

"I'm searching for my highest possible level," Djokovic said. "It's not an obligation. It's truly my desire, my feeling, my passion, my love for tennis. That's the most important. I'm seeking to stay connected with that feeling."

Djokovic expressed his fondness for Geneva, where he has cousins and a close connection to the local football club, Servette. He attended the Stade de Geneve on Monday to witness Young Boys win the Swiss football championship.

Tags: #FrenchOpen, #RafaelNadal, #NovakDjokovic, #Tennis, #RolandGarros