Novak Djokovic says he is still dealing with an elbow issue heading into this week’s Srpska Open as the Serb looks to get his French Open preparations back on track following his early exit at the Monte Carlo Masters.

Djokovic suffered a third-round defeat to Lorenzo Musetti in Monte Carlo last week, the 22-time grand slam champion’s serve broken eight times by the Italian.

“My elbow is not in an ideal shape but good enough to be ready for the first match,” Djokovic told reporters.

“One of the good things in tennis is that you get new opportunity to prove your worth every week and take a step forward. I’ve turned over a new leaf.

“Naturally, I wasn’t satisfied with the result in Monte Carlo. But, ever since I landed, I’ve felt welcomed in Banja Luka, a lot of positive energy and positive emotions.”

The French Open, the second Grand Slam of the season, begins on May 28.

Djokovic will face 18-year-old Luca Van Assche in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina, on Wednesday after the Frenchman claimed a 1-6, 7-6 (7-4), 6-4 victory over three-time grand slam champion Stan Wawrinka.

“I don’t know much about the young French player,” Djokovic said. “I thought Wawrinka would win the match. I saw (Van Assche) play but not for long, he is a real fighter, fast, it’s difficult to get past him. No one should be underestimated.”

Van Assche, ranked 87th in the world, said it was a privilege to play against Djokovic.“Novak is a true champion. Not only in tennis but in sports in general,” he added. “It will be an incredible match. I know I’ll have to give my all to win.”

Djokovic told reporters on Monday that he has enjoyed the atmosphere in Bosnia and Herzegovina ever since he first visited the country more than a decade ago.

“It feels great to be here. I’ve been to Banja Luka several times in the past, once to visit the president and to receive a medal of honor and then the second time was in 2009, I played with Viktor Troicki an exhibition match in an indoor facility here,” Djokovic said. “So I remember those couple of visits really fondly.”

At practice on Monday it was clear how thrilled the local fans were to catch a glimpse of Djokovic. There was a big crowd of fans behind barricades to watch the Serbian prepare for the ATP 250. “The people welcome me wholeheartedly with great reception and so much love and support,” Djokovic said. “So I’m super excited to be here.”

Reuters