Djokovic targeting Federer's grand slam record mark

FILE - Novak Djokovic of Serbia. Photo: John Minchillo/AP

FILE - Novak Djokovic of Serbia. Photo: John Minchillo/AP

Published Aug 25, 2019

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NEW YORK – Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic has made it clear

he is targeting Roger Federer's record haul of grand slam victories

as he prepares to defend his US Open title from Monday in New York.

"It does put a certain level of responsibility to me, as well,

because I am aiming to do that," Djokovic told a news conference late

Saturday.

"It's definitely one of my ambitions and goals, if you want."

Djokovic has 16 slams to Federer's 20, with Rafael Nadal splitting

the pair on 18. But Djokovic closed in at Wimbledon in July, saving

two match points on Federer's serve to move within four by winning a

thrilling five-set final - when a gap of six looked likely.

Federer is now 38 and his last major came at the 2018 Australian

Open. Djokovic is six years younger and has the winning touch by

claiming four of the last five slams.

"I am 32, so things are a little bit different than they were 10

years ago, but I still feel young inside and outside," Djokovic said.

"I am still very motivated to keep going."

Djokovic begins his latest campaign at Flushing Meadows on Monday

against Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena.

DPA

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