Novak Djokovic had to play a meaningless match one day before the semifinals and the Serbian gave his best to be as professional as possible.
Djokovic already qualified for the semifinals earlier but he had to play yet another match at the
ATP Finals. The Serbian wasted no time in that defeating Norrie in a little over an hour in order to preserve as much energy as possible for a showdown against Zverev today. Speaking after the match Djokovic admitted it was difficult not to think ahead but he tried to stay professional:
“I tried not to think about tomorrow’s semi-final. It is not easy to walk on the court knowing you have already qualified and you know your opponent. I tried to be professional and I tried to give my best and I played really well. It was the first time we have played each other. I took the time away from Cameron. I analysed his game and knew the game plan and executed it very well.”
He will face Zverev today and the German already defeated Djokovic in a big event this year (Olympics). Talking about Zverev, Djokovic said:
“Sascha is playing well. He is obviously one of the best players in the world, arguably the best serve, it is definitely up there. It is going to be tough. The conditions are quick, so that will be one of the keys, how well will I serve and return.”
The match starts at 21:00 CET.