Doha Defeat: Djokovic not concerned about Australian Open

Novak Djokovic says a semifinal defeat in Doha will not affect him going into Melbourne.

The top seed was up a set and a break against Roberto Bautista Agut but fell in what was his third consecutive three-setter. He had also played doubles during the week with his brother Marko, reaching the semifinals.

“I wasn’t the freshest, you know,” he told press at Doha, describing the week as positive despite his defeat. “This is what I was looking forward to, to get from this tournament, as many matches as possible, to get ready for the Australian Open, so I’m very pleased.”

Asked about his goal at the Australian Open, the No. 1 replied, “A trophy.”

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Djokovic, who has been the champion six times at Melbourne, appeared irritated at questions about whether the Doha defeat had changed that, saying, “I don’t understand that comment. You asked me what my goal is and it’s a trophy.”

The Serb will be the top seed at Melbourne.