Nitto ATP Finals: Novak Djokovic gets off to a quick start in Turin, looking to capture his sixth title
Serbian legend Novak Djokovic secured a straight set 6-4, 7-6(7-4) victory over World No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece in a group stage clash of the Nitto ATP Finals at Pala Alpitour in Turin, Italy, on November 15
Novak Djokovic secured a straight set 6-4, 7-6(7-4) victory over World No. 3 Stefanos TsitsipasThe 35-year-old Serbian began the match ferociously, breaking the serve of Stefanos Tsitsipas. He pulled the seventh-seeded Greek around the court with precise groundstrokes and fantastic passing shots to secure his victory after one hour and 37 minutes of play.
Novak Djokovic served three aces, won 80% of the points on the first serve, and broke the serve of his Greek opponent one time from two opportunities. In contrast, Stefanos Tsitsipas served nine aces, won 80% of the points on the first serve and earned no breakpoints.
The loss ended all chances of Stefanos Tsitsipas to finish the 2021/22 season as the World No. 1 player on the Pepperstone ATP Live Rankings. The victory also extended the win-loss record of Novak Djokovic against Stefanos Tsitsipas to 10-2.
After the victory, Novak Djokovic said, "We have played some really close matches in the past few tournaments against each other. t was very important to start well. I held my serve really well throughout the match. I played a great tie-break, very solid all the way through."
Novak Djokovic will next lock horns with Andrey Rublev in a group-stage clash at the Nitto ATP Finals on November 16. He aims to win the ATP Nitto Finals for a record-equalling sixth time.
Andrey Rublev earns a stunning victory over compatriot Daniil Medvedev
World No. 7 Andrey Rublev of Russia secured a hard-fought 6-7(7-9), 6-3, 7-6(9-7) over compatriot Daniil Medvedev in a group-stage clash of the Nitto ATP Finals on November 14.
Andrey Rublev was at the top of his form against No. 4 seed Daniil Medvedev. He penetrated the defence of his fellow countryman with precise groundstrokes and fired 25 winners to emerge victorious after two hours and 31 minutes of thrilling play.
After the victory, Andrey Rublev said, "I was thinking 'One more, one more. You have to keep playing. For sure he felt the same, so just keep playing if you have the chance, just go for it. In the end, I was able to win."
Daniil Medvedev will continue his Nitto ATP Final campaign in a group-stage clash against Stefanos Tsitsipas on November 17.