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Djokovic, 35, who is unvaccinated against
COVID-19, was unable to enter the country after unsuccessfully
applying to the U.S. government for special permission to play
at Indian Wells and Miami.
The Australian Open champion last competed in early March when
he lost in the Dubai semi-finals and said his enforced absence
from the Tour helped him focus on Monte Carlo, where he lost in
the second round last year.
"I've done more training on clay, which is positive if you think
about the clay season," said Djokovic, the 2013 and 2015
champion who meets Mackenzie McDonald or a qualifier first.
"I've not had much success in Monte Carlo in the past two
seasons. I haven't played great tennis here, so I'm hoping this
year I can start the clay season better than previous years and
build my form."
With Rafa Nadal skipping Monte Carlo due to injury, Djokovic
will also look to build momentum ahead of the French Open where
the Serbian will target a 23rd Grand Slam to go ahead of the
Spaniard.
Djokovic, who trains at Monaco, said home comforts could prove
helpful is his quest for a record-extending 39th Masters 1000
crown at Monte Carlo.
"It's a club I know well. Quite a few top players reside in
Monaco and use this club as a training base, Djokovic said.
"The club transforms incredibly during the weeks of the
tournament but it's a great feeling to sleep in your own bed."
In first round action on Sunday, 10th seed Hubert Hurkacz
rallied to beat Laslo Djere 6-7(5) 7-6(5) 7-6(5) while Nicolas
Jarry stunned 15th seed Borna Coric 6-2 6-3.
(Reporting by Shrivathsa Sridhar in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter
Rutherford)
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