Djokovic Defeats Ljubicic To Reach 3rd Rd.

Novak Djokovic made a confident start to his 2008 clay court campaign with a 6-3, 6-3 win over Croatia's Ivan Ljubicic to reach the third round of the Masters Series Monte-Carlo Presented by Rolex.

Although the score looked routine, Djokovic was forced to save seven of eight break points and won just 65 per cent of points on his first serve. "Even though I faced a lot of break points, I think I played my best tennis at the most important moments, and that's what matters most," Djokovic said.

The Serb improved to an 18-4 record on the season and next meets the winner of Filippo Volandri and 14th seed Andy Murray.

The Monte Carlo resident is attempting to reach the quarterfinals of his hometown event for the first time. He said that he's feeling good about his clay court prospects.

"I haven't won a major event on clay [but] I think I have enough quality to beat the best players in the world even on this surface. I had more time than last year to prepare, to rest and to work on some things, particular things for clay and hopefully it's going to pay off."

Juan Monaco, the 11th seed, defeated Korean Hyung Taik Lee 6-0, 7-5 to reach the third round.

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