Novak Djokovic building towards French Open in Italy

The ageing 24-time grand slam champion has only participated in three tournaments this year. At this stage in his career, he is aiming to peak at the slams. 

The Serb's clay court swing started last month in Monte-Carlo, where he was knocked out in the semifinals by Casper Ruud. Now, he hopes to get back on track in Rome in what will be his final event before Roland Garros. 

"I'm on a good route to peak at Roland Garros in Paris," Djokovic told AFP.

"Hopefully, here in Rome I can play better than I did in Monte-Carlo. The wish, obviously, is always to go far, but let's see."

"It's a different concept now, the first time that Rome and Madrid are almost two-week events, like Indian Wells, Miami.

"It gives you more time to recover between matches if you keep going in the tournament, which I think is useful for me.

"I'm pleased with the way the past ten days, 14 days went in terms of training, in terms of preparation and looking ahead to this tournament."

Djokovic is a six-time champion in Rome. H will start his campaign against lucky loser Corentin Moutet or Roman Safiullin on Friday.