I felt this was the year to win- Djokovic

Novak Djokovic says he had a feeling this year’s Roland Garros campaign would be different to his previous visits to the French capital, after finally lifting the La Coupe des Mousquetaire trophy.

The world number one recalled going through a range emotions en route to rounding off his come-from-behind four-set triumph over Andy Murray and was particularly complimentary of the crowd for their support after his loss to Stan Wawrinka last year.

“Well, a lot has been going on in my mind ever since I arrived in Paris, but I felt like this year when I arrived that it’s really different from any other year. The relationship and connection I had with fans and with people around that are, you know, contributing to the organization of the event, that I see on a daily basis, from security to, you know, ball boys, ball girls and all the people around, it was just different, you know.

“Obviously, as any other year, I was hoping that this is the year. You know, I felt that kind of support and love from the people around that allowed me to be sitting here with the trophy. That’s for sure.

“That kind of support was very well present at the stadium today. You know, I entered the court quite prepared. I started well first game, and then I dropped four games. You know, nerves kicked in. You know, I needed a little bit of time to really find the right rhythm and start to play the way I intended, which happened in the beginning of the second and practically till 5-2 in the fourth set. It was flawless tennis.”

With the victory, Djokovic joined an esteemed group now featuring eight men to have won all four grand slam titles and remains on course to become the first to hold each of them in the same calendar year since Rod Laver in 1969.

“Well, it’s incredibly flattering to know that Rod Laver is the last one [to win a calendar Grand Slam], you know, that managed to do that, of course. There is not many words that can describe it. It’s one of the ultimate challenges that you have as a tennis player. I’m very proud, very thrilled, obviously.

“You know, but it’s hard for me to reflect on what has happened before and what’s gonna happen after. I mean, I’m just so overwhelmed with having this trophy next to me that I’m just trying to enjoy this moment.”

Djokovic acknowledged the possibility of achieving the feat but insists enjoying his French Open win is at the top of his agenda for the meanwhile.