Cameron Norrie Acknowledges Need to Elevate Performance for Novak Djokovic Challenge

Cameron Norrie is set to face Novak Djokovic in the last-16 of the French Open on Monday, and after his recent fourth-round win, he received an intriguing suggestion from a member of the British media. Following his victory, it was proposed that he reach out to Andy Murray, Djokovic’s former coach, for some valuable insights.

“We play pretty different styles, but it’s definitely not a bad idea,” Norrie acknowledged, hinting at the potential benefit of such a conversation.

While it remains uncertain how much Murray would share given their recent past, Norrie does have some relevant experience to draw upon. Just over a week ago, he managed to take a set from Djokovic during their semi-final match at the Geneva Open.

“Playing against Novak is always a significant challenge,” he noted. “I’ll need to bring my A-game since his serving was exceptional against me in Geneva. He looks sharp and in great form, so I’ll really need to step up my play to have any chance of winning.”

Norrie is facing one of his toughest challenges yet. With Djokovic boasting 99 wins at Roland Garros—only Rafael Nadal has more at 112—it’s evident that the Serbian is well-prepared, especially after recently claiming his 100th career title in Geneva, signalling a return to form.

Furthermore, there is some history between Norrie and Djokovic. At the 2023 Italian Open, Djokovic expressed his displeasure when Norrie unintentionally hit his foot with an overhead shot and later commented on what he viewed as unsportsmanlike conduct from Norrie.

In that matchup, Djokovic remarked, “He’s allowed to take a medical timeout and hit a player, and he shows a lot of emotion on each point from the very start. Those are things that we players know in the locker room; it’s not fair play.” However, Norrie has since indicated that their relationship has improved, saying, “It’s all good. The match in Geneva was constructive, and I wished him well. There were no hard feelings.”

After slipping to No. 81 in world rankings due to injuries and inconsistent performance, Norrie is experiencing a resurgence with a focus on his physical game. Although he admits his performance hasn’t been extraordinary, he does utilize his fitness to outlast opponents. However, overcoming Djokovic will require an elevated level of exertion.

“I don’t think a seven out of ten will suffice, but that’s been adequate so far,” he explained. “I’m going to have to endure a long battle, probably running for four and a half hours, and make sure to push him into uncomfortable situations. My quality of play needs to be top-notch; otherwise, I have little chance.”

In reality, it is Jack Draper who stands a strong chance of becoming the first British male quarter-finalist at Roland Garros since Andy Murray in 2017. The 23-year-old is slated to play Alexander Bublik, the world No. 62 from Kazakhstan, known for his flamboyant trick shots but lacking the consistency to break into higher rankings.

In contrast, Draper’s swift ascent to No. 5 in the world has been remarkable. A year ago, he was disheartened after a first-round exit at the French Open; now, he appears transformed, with a left-handed forehand that generates formidable spin and height on clay. Confidence is also on his side.

“After last year’s loss here, I was at No. 40, uncertain about how to elevate my game,” Draper recalled. “Winning my first title on grass in Stuttgart shortly after was crucial. Having reached a few finals before, I realized that success in tennis means sometimes needing a title to validate your efforts. Winning that title was liberating and gave me the confidence to believe in my abilities as a top player over time.”