Day Three of The Boodles 2015
Novak Djokovic makes a winning return to grass at The Boodles
Novak Djokovic made a winning return to grass today at The Boodles with victory of Richard Gasquet 64 67(4) 10-4. The world No.1, making his tenth consecutive visit to The Boodles to prepare for the defence of his Wimbledon title which will start on Monday at the All England Club, arrived in spectacular fashion by helicopter.
Novak Djokovic said:
“Wimbledon is the biggest event in the sport, at least in my opinion and the one that I think the majority of the players dream of winning. The grass court season is pretty short but its one week longer this year. Unfortunately I didn't participate in any official tournament before Wimbledon but that is why I am coming here in Stoke Park because I need some match play and I like the scenery. I enjoy it, I have a lot of fun, we have a lot of laughs and its something that is not very common on the court, competing in big tournaments you are in your own world and in your own zone and you focus on winning and here it is not about winning its about playing some good tennis and interacting with the crowd.”
“I needed some time off (after Roland Garros), more mentally rather than physically because I played a lot of matches from the beginning of the season. Lost only two and had one of the best starts of the season in my career and of course I am very grateful for that. I am trying to cherish every moment spent on the court but there are days and times when you really need to take some time off. I regrouped, spent some time with my family and got thoughts off the tennis a little bit and I am back in my office and hopefully I will be able to perform well.”
Djokovic’s opponent, Richard Gasquet, enjoyed the unique atmosphere of The Boodles experience with the world No.1 on The Boodles stadium court:
“For us its very nice to play with Novak, he is the best player in the world, there is a lot of crowd there so it was a great experience for me. I am very happy when I am playing here, it is the best preparation for Wimbledon.”
“It is very funny and it is very nice because everybody likes tennis and people are enjoying it and that is the most important thing for me.”
Other matches on day three at The Boodles saw Robin Haase defeat Fabio Fognini 64 75, John Isner defeat Thanasi Kokkinakis 64 64 and Fernando Verdasco win the all-Spanish clash with Tommy Robredo 67(4) 62 11-9.
The Team GB Women's Hockey Team, recently qualified for the 2016 Rio Olympics, also enjoyed a day at The Boodles and were lucky enough to have a photo with Novak Djokovic and Richard Gasquet.
Friday 26th June will see the debut of Rafael Nadal at The Boodles. Nadal who will take on Robin Haase in the third match of the day
Order of Play Friday 26th June 2015 - 12.30pm
12.30pm
Jack Sock (USA) v Tommy Robredo (ESP)
2.30pm
Novak Djokovic (SRB) v Alexander Zverev (GER)
followed by
Rafael Nadal (ESP) v Robin Haase (NED)
not before 5pm
Mike and Bob Bryan (USA) v Alexander and Mischa Zverev (GER)