“The engine can’t work” Novak Djokovic heartbroken after defeat in finals of Serbia Open 2022
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Novak Djokovic
World No. 1 Novak Djokovic came up short in the finals of the Serbia Open 2022 as World No. 8 and the second seed Andrey Rublev won the match 6-2, 6-7(4), 6-0 to make a winning debut at the tournament in Belgrade hosted at the Novak Tennis Center. Rublev had made a commanding start to the match and was about to wrap in straight-sets before a stern defence from the Serbian.
Rublev saved five set points but Novak’s attack did not stop and a third set was forced for the finals which eventually led to Novak being served a bagel for the 13th time in his career as the lengthy second set had emptied Novak’s tank. Despite a moderate resilience, it was not enough for Rublev who won his third tour title of the season and first on Clay.
Novak who was playing just his third tournament of the season had come into this week’s event after a shocking second-round defeat in the 2022 Monte-Carlo Masters and was looking for more game time which he certainly got. Although his matches were decided in 3-sets in all rounds, Novak certainly knows his level better now and can prepare accordingly. Nevertheless, he expressed his disappointment in not being able to claim the title.
“I apologise because of the way the 3rd set unfolded. It’s an individual sport, when something fails, the engine can’t work. Lots of emotions, thank you for pushing me to the finals,” said Novak during the trophy presentation ceremony where his brother Djordje was also present as he is also the tournament director. Novak also invited the fans in Belgrade so that he could thank him for their support this week in what has been a difficult year for him professionally.
Novak Djokovic invites Andrey Rublev to defend his title next year
With the tournament being held in his hometown, Novak extended the reception of Belgrade to Rublev and invited him to come back next year and defend the title as he told the Russian that the crowd loved him this year and would certainly like him back next year. “Congratulations, you are a great champion and a great guy. Belgrade and Serbia love you so please come back to defend your title,” said Djokovic further.
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