“Hammer Tennis”: Novak Djokovic Compares Matteo Berrettini With Juan Martin Del Potro

Star of the show, Novak Djokovic once again lit up the New York skyline with yet another triumphant victory. Chasing history with all his might, the Serbian international played a remarkable game of tennis in round 4 of the US Open. Notably, he clashed with American youngster, Jenson Brooksby, who challenged the World No.1 in an intense physical battle.

Living up to his caliber, Novak came back from behind to defeat Jenson, in thrilling fashion. However, the 20-year-old’s first-set performance remains the highlight of the match. Despite the Serb’s stature, Brooksby played fearlessly and won the crowd with his courageous tennis. He bagged the first set 1-6, shocking fans and rocking the Arthur Ashe stadium.

However, as he failed to maintain pace against the top seed, he bowed out of the tournament eventually. Novak now sets up to face a familiar opponent in the quarterfinals of the tournament, speaking of whom, he made comparisons with Olympic arch-rival, Juan Martín del Potro.

Big words from Novak Djokovic

Novak came back from a set down, winning the game in an enticing 4-setter. Despite his initial setback, he found his rhythm on the court and was then unstoppable. He went on to win the game, 1-6, 6-2, 6-2, 6-3. With that win, he marches on to the quarter-finals of the tournament, where he faces Italian international, Matteo Berrettini. 

Ahead of what will be a rematch of the 2021 Wimbledon championship finals, Novak opened up on Matteo. He said, “Hammer tennis. Lethal serve and forehand, perhaps the hardest hitter, along with Del Potro: If he serves well, which is his biggest weapon, it’s really tough. We had close matches.” 

Between Martin del Potro and Novak Djokovic, it is the Argentine who holds the bragging rights. Against all odds and beliefs, Martin knocked out Novak at both the London and the Rio Olympics. Hence, it will be interesting to see how well Novak does against his alleged replica.

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A familiar opponent awaits

Matteo Berrettini met Novak Djokovic in the final of the 2021 Wimbledon Championship, earlier this year. Notably, even as the Italian made a strong start, he failed to keep up to the Serb’s fine form. Beating the World No. 8 in a thrilling 4-setter, Novak won his 20th Grand Slam title, equaling the record of his fellow ‘big 3’ members, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

It is fair to say that an exciting match awaits the courts of New York. Undoubtedly, with every passing game, Novak appears to be unstoppable. However, with the Italian aiming for redemption, how much of a threat will he be to Djoko’s dream Calendar Grand Slam title?

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