Novak Djokovic eases past Ruud for 1000th career win

He has now been named on the list of great tennis legends who have amassed at least 1000 career wins as the third entry in the big three, right behind Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. After a slow period, Djokovic has regained his lost form and is playing top-notch tennis, although his peak rests slightly higher. He is aiming to unlock his full potential in Roland Garros this year. 

Djokovic entered the finals of the Italian Open last year. This year, his opponent is surprisingly not Rafael Nadal but Stefanos Tsitsipas, whom Djokovic defeated at the tournament last year. The recent semifinal match was an easy win for Nole, as he visibly struggled despite the world's number one stumbling on his serve. Djokovic started strong but had a momentary dip in his focus, allowing Ruud to catch up. However, Nole won it 6-4 and then grabbed the second set 6-3 by breaking his opponent's serve twice. However, The Norwegian looked at the positive side of things and admitted he was happy to be a part of history being written as Djokovic won the 1000th match of his career.

Djokovic is ready to tackle Tsitsipas, who defeated clay-court rival Zverev.

Djokovic is now chasing a sixth title at the Foro Italico before French Open commences later this month. He defeated the world number 10 to fix his 12th final at one of his favourite venues. The 34-year-old has secured a record-extending 370th week as world number one after his straight-sets victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime on Friday. Djokovic's summit clash with Tsitsipas will be reminiscent of the final at last year's French Open; a nail-biting five-set thriller won by the Serb.

In a thrilling last four battle, the Greek world number five Tsitsipas defeated Alexander Zverev 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 in an exciting last-four match. The duo added another chapter to their 2022 clay-court rivalry, but the Greeks secured the win. The win marks Tsitsipas' 31st of 2022, extending his lead over second-placed Carlos Alcaraz (28) for most match wins for the season. He has now climbed one place to number four in the Pepperstone Live ATP Rankings, and Tsitsipas' excellent form on clay put him among the favourites for the French Open at Roland Garros set to commence in a week.