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SportTennis

Newly-wed Novak Djokovic seeks more joy on US hard courts

Serbian heads for ATP Masters in Toronto in preparation for looming US Open

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Novak Djokovic is married to Jelena Ristic and is expecting a child soon. Photo: AP

Newly-wed Novak Djokovic will try to give himself more reason to celebrate this week as he returns to the hard courts of North America at the ATP Masters at Toronto with the US Open on the horizon.

The number one-ranked Serb, who has lifted the trophy three times in the tournament that alternates between Toronto and Montreal, is seeking another strong run to further separate himself atop the rankings from injured world number two Rafael Nadal.

It's been probably the best month I've had in my life with the Wimbledon title, a wedding and of course a baby coming up
Novak Djokovic

The Spaniard, who won the 2013 Canadian crown as well as the Cincinnati Masters, has withdrawn from both events this year to nurse a right wrist injury - raising fears he could also miss the final grand slam event of the season at Flushing Meadows, where he is also the defending champion.

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His absence leaves Djokovic as the favourite in Toronto, and despite a "terrible draw" that could have him meeting eighth-seeded Andy Murray in the quarter-finals the 27-year-old was in high spirits after winning Wimbledon and getting married, with his first child to be born soon.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia will take to the hard courts as he prepares for the last grand slam of the year, the US Open. Photo: Xinhua
Novak Djokovic of Serbia will take to the hard courts as he prepares for the last grand slam of the year, the US Open. Photo: Xinhua
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"It's been probably the best month I've had in my life with the Wimbledon title, a wedding and of course a baby coming up," Djokovic said.

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