Run Silent, Run Deep: Djokovic Quietly Poised for Wimbledon Repeat

By Erik Gudris

Photo Credit: Getty Images

(July 3rd, 2012) Novak Djokovic is back into the quarterfinals of Wimbledon. And while that was expected by many as soon as the defending champion's section of the draw was released, it's interesting that aside from a sly comedic moment Djokovic created by pulling out a mini golf club before his opening round match against Juan Carlos Ferrero, Djokovic for the most part has been almost forgotten during the first part of the fortnight.

With the true impact of Rafael Nadal's early round shock exit still being examined, "Murray Mania" sweeping through Great Britain again especially after the Scot literally played "beat the clock" against Marcos Baghdatis and Roger Federer earning more wishful accolades from those hoping he can win just one more Wimbledon title, Djokovic has almost quietly made his way through the first four rounds by only dropping one set to Radek Stepanek while also avoiding any significant drama. Even players like qualifier Brian Baker and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga are getting more press lately than the man still considered by many to be the one to beat.

One thing that hasn't been overlooked though is the fact that come July 4th, Djokovic will have booked a full year as the No. 1 player in the world since he defeated Nadal in the Wimbledon finals last year. It's the fourth longest run at the top (53 consecutive weeks) for an ATP player, only behind Lleyton Hewitt, Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer. Djokovic reflected on his achievement after he defeated fellow Davis Cup teammate Viktor Troicki in the fourth round.

"It was obviously always my ambition and my career goal to be the best at what I do. I’ve been dedicating my whole life to this sport, and I was able to achieve my goals last year in Wimbledon to win my dream tournament and then become No. 1," said Djokovic. "But then after that, after everything finished, everything calmed down, I was hungry for more success. Obviously I’m playing the best tennis of my life at this moment, and I’m trying to stay where I am as much as I can."

Staying hungry, especially this year when his results though impressive still can't match his near perfect run at the start of the 2011, has been the key for Djokovic. With Nadal gaining ground on Djokovic throughout the clay-court season and Federer appearing to turn back the clock with every match he plays, Djokovic would dearly love to repeat as Wimbledon champion and keep his No. 1 ranking. But it's Djokovic's steely focus on just winning each match and not worrying about his challengers and, almost as important, being free of all the extra attention they've been getting lately that could be his biggest key to winning Wimbledon again.

"I’m feeling great on the court, and that’s what matters the most for me," said Djokovic before the start of the event. "I’m focusing on my next tournament. Rankings are following up all the results, the good success that you achieve as a player, I think. If you worry too much about calculations, you’re going to lose that necessary focus on the court. That’s my mindset right now."

Djokovic will next meet Germany's Florian Mayer in the quarterfinals.