Novak Djokovic says his "passion to compete" is still strong, with his motivation not affected despite rivals Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer's retirements.

Nadal retired at the end of last year, following Federer, who put down his racket in September 2022.

Djokovic has struggled so far this season, having to retire injured in the semi-final of the Australian Open against Alexander Zverev, with his standout performance since then a run to the Miami Open final.

However, while seeking to win his 100th Tour-level title, he was beaten in straight sets by Jakub Mensik to ensure his wait for the landmark went on.

His most recent triumph came at the Paris Olympics, where he beat Carlos Alcaraz to win gold, with the Madrid Open his next chance to win as he plays at the tournament for the first time since 2022.

Asked whether he has lost any motivation now that both of his great rivals have retired, Djokovic told Eurosport Spain: "Maybe so, but if I'm not motivated, I'm not here. I don't play anymore. I put the racket to rest. 

"I still feel the desire to play, the passion to compete is always there. I hope to push harder. The Grand Slams are tournaments where I have more motivation to do well."

For the third straight day... it’s practice time!

@DjokerNole continues his prep in Madrid @atptour | @ATPTour_ES | #MMOPEN pic.twitter.com/nNBHEeri9n

— #MMOPEN (@MutuaMadridOpen) April 21, 2025

Djokovic, who failed to win a grand slam in 2024, is stepping up preparation for the French Open, as he continues his bid to win a 25th major title.

The Serb's clay swing started with a straight-sets defeat to Alejandro Tabilo at the Monte-Carlo Masters, a result Djokovic described as “horrible”.

But he remained upbeat about his chances of bouncing back to clinch a win in Madrid.

"I'm always optimistic, but I don't know if I'm one of the favourites because I'm not having very good results this year," Djokovic said.

"The level I'm looking for could come here or at Roland Garros. I hope it will be here.

"I always have very good feelings when I return to Madrid, to Spain. It's a country I love very much. I've won the Madrid Open three times in my career, with extraordinary matches against Nadal and Alcaraz.

"I've played little here in the last six to seven years, but I missed the Spanish public, because they know the sport well and respect tennis a lot. I have a good feeling, and I hope to have a good tournament."