November 17, (THEWILL) -Novak Djokovic returned to form in Turin, qualifying for his 10th Nitto ATP Finals semi-final with a straight sets triumph over Andrey Rublev.
The world number one, who is aiming for a record-tying sixth trophy at the tournament to cap up an incredible 2021, won 6-3 6-2 in one hour and eight minutes to win Green Group with a match to spare.
The result also marks the 20-time Grand Slam champion’s 40th victory at the ATP finals, moving him over Ivan Lendl into sole possession of second place in the competition’s most match victories, with Roger Federer leading the way with 59.
Djokovic and Rublev traded early breaks in an unruly opening session, with Djokovic exhibiting early rust on his serve, similar to his slow start before getting through Casper Ruud in his first match.
For much of the first set, Djokovic did not have it all his own way, as Rublev’s booming forehand caused enough of issues, but that all changed in game eight, when Djokovic took advantage of a backhand error by his opponent and swooped in to nail a crosscourt pass and gain a critical break.
The five-time champion then served out to love to win the first set in 36 minutes before breaking for a 2-1 lead in the second set.
Djokovic’s signature defensive flexibility was on display once again as he delivered a lethal pass down the stretch to unlock the world number five and ensure the rest of the match would be a formality.
The Serb had never played Rublev in a competitive match before this encounter, and he took the lead in the head-to-head when he broke again in game seven before serving out the victory, demonstrating that he is in good shape and ready to end a six-year wait to win this trophy again.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
