Djokovic: I'm Still Trailing The Fed Express

Jan 13 2008

AWESTRUCK Novak Djokovic can't believe tennis fans have started talking about him in the same breath as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

The Serb hasn't yet taken in his meteoric rise to world No.3 - but is flattered to be linked with the greatest in tennis.

He said: "I've had a lot of good results recently and people are talking more about three players - not just those two.

"It's nice to hear but I must focus on my life and career then try to achieve my goals."

Djokovic hopes to win his first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open this week - but knows the big two will be hard to beat. He is on course to clash with both if he is to make it to the final.

He said: "Federer has proved he's the best and really deserves top spot.

"I'm trying to challenge him but I'm just 20 years old so I'm not trying to rush anywhere.

"The way he's playing, he's not thinking of letting go of that first place in the world."

Djokovic, who plays German Benjamin Becker in the opening round, added: "Nadal is right behind Roger - their rivalry is the biggest in men's tennis."

Meanwhile, Maria Sharapova has slammed claims she's a spent force ahead the Melbourne event.

She won Wimbledon at just 16 - but four years later has been eclipsed by Justine Henin.

The Russian said: "You can't count me out. I'm one of the toughest out there.

"Justine is the big favourite but I'll only worry about business on my side of the net. If I lose doing everything and giving everything I have then I won't be upset."