Tim Henman 'surprised' by 'pumped-up' Novak Djokovic attitude in first-round win over Yoshihito Nishioka

Tim Henman wondered if Novak Djokovic’s “pumped-up” start to the French Open showed his determination to win the tournament after missing out on playing the Australian Open. World No. 1 Djokovic was deported from Australia ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year as he is unvaccinated against Covid-19.

In his absence, long-time rival Rafael Nadal won in Melbourne to clinch a record 21st Grand Slam title. Ad/> Djokovic now has the chance to move level with Nadal if he wins again in Paris. Roland-GarrosDjokovic criticises Wimbledon for 'wrong decision' over Russian and Belarusian ban33 MINUTES AGO He started the defence of his title with a routine win over Yoshihito Nishioka that featured several fist pumps and some full-throttle roars of delight which were booed by the crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier.

“His performance was one thing, his ball striking, the consistency on serve, but I was surprised by his attitude, he was so pumped up,” said former British No. 1 Henman on Eurosport. “There was a lot of fist pumping, the screaming and shouting out, for a first-round match at a Grand Slam, for someone who has won 20 of them, is that a reflection of what happened in Australia where he didn’t get the opportunity? This is his next opportunity to get to 21 and he is so pumped up.

“You saw from the word go he was so motivated, focused and fired up, ready to get the job done and that’s what he did. He is trending in the right direction. “He is maybe a little bit underdone but getting the victory in Rome and to come here and make a little bit of a statement.