Sinner is the first man in history to ever beat Novak Djokovic from 3 consecutive match points down. Jannik’s historic season isn’t done yet. 🇮🇹
"I don't want to talk about it because it's going to sound like an excuse": Novak Djokovic doesn't blame fatigue for Davis Cup defeat
ATPSunday, 26 November 2023 at 22:30
Novak
Djokovic expressed his disappointment over the defeat to Italy in the 2023
Davis Cup. The Serbian tennis player had high expectations upon arriving in
Malaga, aiming to secure the Davis Cup for the second time in his career after
leading the team to victory in 2010 against France in an epic final.
The
Serbians reached the semifinals of the tournament and faced Italy. In the first
match, Miomir Kecmanovic surprised Lorenzo Musseti with a remarkable comeback,
leaving 'Nole' with the responsibility to win and advance to the final.
However, young Jannik Sinner appeared to thwart his aspirations, defeating him
for the second time in their third encounter in the last two weeks.
With both
singles matches played, both teams took to the court, with Sinner and Sonego
defeating Djokovic and Kecmanovic 6-3, 6-4, securing a spot in the final for
the Italians.
“Congratulations
to Italy for qualifying for the finals,” Djokovic said afterward.
“They
deserved it. They played really well, particularly Jannik, in singles against
me and then doubles, as well. He barely missed a ball the entire match. For me
personally it’s a huge disappointment, because I take the responsibility,
obviously having three match points, being so close to winning it. It’s
unfortunate really. This is sport. When you lose for your country, the bitter
feeling is even greater.”
The Serbian
expected to conclude his dream season with the title for his country after
finishing the year as the world No. 1, winning three Grand Slams, and the ATP
Finals. In the press conference, Djokovic was asked if the physical demands of
the season took a toll on him:
“I don’t
want to talk about it because it’s going to sound like an excuse,” he said.
“Obviously
this is a tough one to swallow. I was really trying to hype myself and
encourage myself for this week.
“Throughout
the entire season, my thoughts were this week with my Davis Cup team. I tried
to contribute. I did in the first tie, but it wasn’t meant to be.”
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