Connect with us

Sports

Novak Djokovic Details Why Win Over Rafael Nadal in French Open 2021 SFs Is His ‘Best Match’ at Roland-Garros

Serbian World No.1 Novak Djokovic did the impossible for the second time in his career. He outclassed the 13-time champion, Rafael Nadal, in the French Open 2021 semifinal, 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-2.

Unquestionably, the spectacular battle that ran for four hours and 13 minutes would stay in tennis fans’ minds forever. Moreover, it is a victory that even the Serb would cherish more than his most achievements.

Novak Djokovic
Tennis – French Open – Roland Garros, Paris, France – June 11, 2021 Serbia’s Novak Djokovic celebrates winning his semi final match against Spain’s Rafael Nadal REUTERS/Christian Hartmann

Coming back from a set loss to winning three subsequent sets against the Spaniard is easier said than done. But if not anything, Djokovic put on a great show of determination to play every point with utmost sincerity and class.

Watch this story: Top Reactions of Novak Djokovic When He Can’t Handle Rafael Nadal’s Game

Novak Djokovic reflects on his win over Rafael Nadal at French Open 2021

The 18-time Grand Slam champion enjoyed every minute playing on Philippe-Chatrier in front of 5000 fans and against Nadal. Also, he accomplished what the tennis community considered the most difficult challenge in the sport.

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal
Tennis – French Open – Roland Garros, Paris, France – June 11, 2021 Serbia’s Novak Djokovic shakes hands with Spain’s Rafael Nadal after winning their semi final match REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes

Hence, sitting in his post-match press conference, Djokovic felt relieved. He even went on to describe the match as one of his notable victories.

“Definitely, the best match that I was part of ever in Roland-Garros, for me. And top three matches that I ever played in my entire career,” Djokovic said. Furthermore, he stated the aspects that made the match attain the Top 3 label.

He said, “Considering quality tennis, playing my biggest rival, on the court where he has had so much success and has been the dominant force in the last 15+ years, and the atmosphere which was completely electric. For both players, a lot of support, just amazing.”

Consequently, the Serbian ace is now one match away from his 19th Grand Slam title. He will meet the first-time finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas in the French Open 2021 final.

Read More: “Cannot Play Better Clay-Court Tennis Than This”: Andy Murray, Maria Sharapova, and Others React to Novak Djokovic’s Nervy-Wrecking Win Over Rafael Nadal at French Open

Djokovic wants to enjoy victory over Nadal before thinking about Tsitsipas

Later on in the interview, the 34-year-old opened up on his next opponent. However, Djokovic also made it clear that he wants to cherish the moment first.

“I’ll enjoy this victory a little bit,” he said. “Don’t have much time, but you know, I deserve after this big win to relax without thinking about the next opponent even though it’s the finals of a Grand Slam.”

Above all, he hopes to rest enough and be ready for the Sunday final against a young and fit opponent. Do you think Djokovic would go on to win over Tsitsipas after a mentally and physically draining semifinal?

Also Read: “Have to Climb Mount Everest to Win Against Rafael Nadal”: Novak Djokovic on His Epic Victory at French Open 2021

The post Novak Djokovic Details Why Win Over Rafael Nadal in French Open 2021 SFs Is His ‘Best Match’ at Roland-Garros appeared first on EssentiallySports.