Djokovic Ready To Start Clay Season At Monte Carlo

Novak Djokovic, the world number one, is looking to kick off his clay season in style at Monte Carlo, having begun preparations early.

Djokovic had to skip tournaments in the United States last month after failing to gain special permission from the US government to enter the country.

He has been training on clay instead and feels positive about the upcoming clay season.

Djokovic, who lost in the second round at Monte Carlo last year, has not had much success in the past two seasons.

With Rafael Nadal skipping the tournament due to injury, Djokovic will be aiming to build momentum ahead of the French Open where he will target a 23rd Grand Slam to surpass the Spaniard.

Djokovic, who trains at Monaco, says that the club feels like home, and the fact that he is familiar with it could help him in his quest for a record-extending 39th Masters 1000 crown at Monte Carlo.

Meanwhile, in first-round action, Hubert Hurkacz rallied to beat Laslo Djere 6-7(5) 7-6(5) 7-6(5), while Nicolas Jarry stunned 15th seed Borna Coric 6-2 6-3.