‘I love playing the best of five sets, the longer the match, the more I feel like I have no problem,’ says Novak Djokovic
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Novak Djokovic
World No.1 Novak Djokovic is just two steps away from achieving the rare feat of a Calendar Slam for 2021. After having won the first three Majors of the year, the Serb has a golden shot of winning the US Open.
However, World No.4 Alexander Zverev stands in his way and if Djokovic is able to overcome the challenge of the Tokyo games Gold medalist, then a potential thriller of a final with World No.2 Daniil Medvedev awaits.
Meanwhile, the 34-year-old Djokovic is known as the master of five set matches. His physical endurance, coupled with tenacity is what makes him a daunting challenge at the Grand Slams for his opponents.
Such is the belief and unflappable nature of Djokovic that he was even won matches from the brink of a match point down. While Germany’s Zverev might have his chances in the semifinals, the top-ranked Djokovic has already issued a warning.
Speaking to the media ahead of his big semifinal clash, the top seed spoke about why he loves playing five set matches. “I love playing the best of five sets, especially against the youngsters. I think having been in the spotlight so many times helps me. Physically, I feel as fit as anyone else. So I can go the distance. In fact, I like to go all the way. The longer the match, the more I feel like I have no problem.”
The 20-time Grand Slam champion also said that, although he would be fine to play for five hours and grind out tough wins, but he would ideally prefer finishing off matches at the earliest.
‘Fine for five sets, but would prefer three’: Djokovic
“I think I have more chances than any other opponent. Of course, I would love to start and win in three sets, don’t get me wrong. But sometimes there are ups and downs during a match, especially when playing against the best players in the world in the final rounds of a Grand Slam. I’ll be ready to face five sets, five hours, whatever it takes. This is what I am here for.”
If Djokovic wins the 2021 US Open, then he will also surpass his rivals, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in the all-time list for most Grand Slams won.
Also read: ‘Watching Roger Federer play is like watching the Messi of tennis,’ says Richard Gasquet
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Vivek Krishnan
(767 Articles Published)