MATCH REPORT | 2023 ATP Finals: Novak DJOKOVIC sees semi-final chances slip despite three-set win against Hubert HURKACZ

Novak Djokovic secured victory against Hubert Hurkacz in his last Group Stage tie at the 2023 ATP Finals, but it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to put him through into the semi-finals after he dropped the second set, winning the match 7-6 (1), 4-6, 6-1.

The World No. 1 has finished his Group Stage matches at the 2023 Nitto ATP Finals in Turin with a 2-1 record, having edged past Holger Rune 7-6 (4), 6-7 (1), 6-3, before losing to home player Jannik Sinner 5-7, 7-6 (5), 6-7 (2). Therefore, he needed to win in straight sets today against Hurkacz to ensure his place in the semi-finals of the prestigious season-ending championship.

The Serbian player got off to a strong start against the first alternate, who came in to replace Stefanos Tsitsipas after the latter retired from his second tie against Rune due to injury. Both did well to hold their serves in the first set, but Hurkacz's determination to try and get his first win against the 24-time Grand Slam champion was clear after he saved a risky situation on deuce in his first service game by acing Djokovic twice in a row.

Eventually, a tiebreak was required to decide the first set, during which Djokovic was able to take the lead. building up six set points before securing the opener. However, he found himself in trouble early on in the second set, with his opponent getting two break points at 2-2.

Hurkacz then got the early break after an error from Djokovic, and the latter proceeded to go a total of 14 minutes without winning a single point. There was an opportunity for the 36-year-old to break back a little later, but the Polish player saved two break points and held with the help of another ace.

Shortly after this, the 26-year-old successfully served for the set, which could prove to be crucial for Djokovic's qualification chances. Although the top seed fought back in the decider to secure the match, it didn't matter at that point if he won or lost as he is now entirely dependent on Sinner winning his clash with Rune to see him through into the next round.

As Hurkacz secured the second set, the Italian crowd were roaring with delight as refusing Djokovic a straight-sets victory also confirmed Sinner's place in the semi-finals. In order for Djokovic to get there as well, the home player will have to defeat Rune, otherwise the Dane will qualify instead of him.