Daniil Medvedev Steamrolls Over Novak Djokovic After He Commits 28 Unforced Errors at ATP Finals 2020

Daniil Medvedev displayed sheer determination and put on a masterclass against Novak Djokovic at the ATP Finals 2020. Fans would’ve thronged to see the event at O2 Arena’s Centre Court if not for the pandemic. Two athletes of the highest quality faced off, but Medvedev just soared to a straight-set victory against the World No.1. 

Not only does this win improve Medevedev’s H2H record against Djokovic, but it also puts him in the semi-finals of the tournament for the first time in his career.

Furthermore, most of the participants at the event including Dominic Thiem and Diego Schwartzman were in attendance for the match and witnessed a brilliant spectacle unfold.

Medvedev paid an emotional tribute to Djokovic after defeating him and mentioned how it has been a life-long dream. “I love playing against Novak,” he said.

“He’s one of the greatest champions in the history of our sport. When I was 8, I already watched him on TV winning Grand Slams. It has always been a challenge. dreams of facing it,” Medvedev further added.

The 6-3, 6-3 scorecard vastly highlights that Medvedev enjoyed a comprehensive victory. Daniil Medvedev got off to a flyer as his serve proved too hot to handle for the Serb. 

Almost all of his service games ended in a convincing fashion as the Russian fired 10 Aces in the encounter. Furthermore, Djokovic got just a single chance to break Medvedev’s serve in the whole match, while the Russian converted 3/8 breakpoints. 

The story inversed in Djokovic’s case as the 33-year-old just looked off touch on the night. He failed to create an impact with his serve, which can be a player’s biggest weapon on indoor hard courts. 

Also Read: “Most Difficult Match Against Novak Djokovic”- Alexander Zverev Hopes for Semifinal Ticket After Defeating Diego Schwartzman

Unforced Errors Cost Novak Djokovic the match against Daniil Medvedev

Djokovic was hardly delivering on a night that demanded durability. He looked shaky right from the start, and things didn’t change as the match went on. Medvedev excelled with his unconventional style to upset the Serb in a convincing fashion. 

Novak Djokovic failed to settle into the match effectively and his forehands added to the misery. It lacked accuracy, and moreover, a total of 28 unforced errors majorly led to his doom. The Serb failed to find his form after an emphatic first-round victory against Diego Schwartzman.

Djokovic was unable to capitalize on his strengths and committed five double faults. A meager 59% first-serve percentage contributed to this cause as pressure seemed to have got the better of the 17x Grand-Slam champion. 

Daniil Medvedev just looked more mentally locked in during the match when compared to Djokovic. Moreover, the 24-year-old’s lively demeanor on the court showcased tremendous promise as he’s now marked himself as a top contender to win the title.

Medvedev’s semi-final victory also makes him the first Russian in the last four since Nikolay Davydenko. The former US Open finalist looks to be calm and collected when it matters, but can he go as far as winning the title in London?

Also Read: “Nothing Disrespectful About It”: Daniil Medvedev on His Underarm Serve at ATP Finals 2020