Novak Djokovic has revealed that he is feeling confident about his fitness ahead of his opening match at the Italian Open.
The world number two recently withdrew from the Madrid Open through injury after suffering a wrist problem during the Monte Carlo Masters.
Despite concerns over the state of his wrist, Djokovic insists that he is fit enough to compete in Rome.
"It was a big decision not to go to Madrid, but I had to assess the risk in competing as it might have compromised my participation in future tournaments," the Serbian told the ATP's official website. "I did not want it to become chronic. The wrist is something that is always active as a tennis player, who hit thousands of balls per day.
"I have practised and my wrist has been monitored. All the experts – a few doctors and my physiotherapist – said that after I played points and full training, I was able to return to tournament play. Right now, I feel confident about the state of my wrist. I am more ready than I was one week ago to play a match."
Djokovic gets his Italian Open campaign underway in the second round against Radek Stepanek after receiving a bye in round one.
Jack Prescott
