World No. 1 Novak Djokovic was at the heart of the headlines as he marched forward in his quest for eternal greatness. Facing an infamous opponent, fans of the Serb feared another upset as he battled against Alexander Zverev. The two ATP stars put on a show at the Arthur Ashe stadium, sending sparks flying all across the New York skyline.
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Notably, a strong start to the game had fans on the edge of their seats. Battling past the World No.1, Zverev toppled the Serb, winning the first set 4-6. A frustrated Novak lost the first set for his fourth consecutive game. However, emerging victorious in each of those, a similar comeback was expected from the Serbian giant.
Twitter erupts for Novak Djokovic
With history at stake, Novak left everything he had on the court. He started the second set with a dominating 3-0 lead. The scoreline at the end of the second set read 6-2, with Novak finding his form and footing, using his rhythm to his very best.
Engaging in a fierce battle, the two giants recorded the tournament’s longest rally, 53 shots back and forth, in the third set. However, even as Zverev won the rally, Novak claimed the third set. With the Serb now leading, it was all to play for for the World No. 4.
However, just when fans thought he was down and out, the German youngster made a solid comeback in the game. He beat Novak in emphatic style, claiming the fourth set 4-6, and taking the match to a decider. As they donned the fifth and final set, the nail-biting had begun.
Playing with all his might, Novak once again started strong, gaining the all-important break in the game. As the crowd roared every swing that left the maestro’s racquet, Novak recorded a thumping 5th set victory, winning the game 4-6, 6-2, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2. Hence, Twitter erupted with praises for the Serb’s unbelievable performance.
Notably, from coach Patrick Mouratoglou to American legend Mardy Fish, everyone was in awe of what they had just witnessed.
I told u.
— Patrick Mouratoglou (@pmouratoglou) September 11, 2021
Did anyone else’s TV just switch to a commercial in the middle of a point?
— andyroddick (@andyroddick) September 11, 2021
There goes the soul #USOpen
— Mardy Fish (@MardyFish) September 11, 2021
Watching @DjokerNole playing at such a ridiculous level. Excited for Sunday and what he’s about to do. #USOpenFinal
— Ben Stiller (@RedHourBen) September 11, 2021
UNSTOPPABLE. INCREDIBLE. @DjokerNole | #Djokovic #USOpen
— Nicolas Kiefer (@Nicolas_Kiefer) September 11, 2021
Bring on Medvedev
A fan favorite, Genie Bouchard, also took to her Instagram, calling Novak her favorite. Sharing a glimpse of her television in her story, she wrote, “Post-training protein and watching my favorite.”
Now, Novak faces Russia’s Daniil Medvedev in a re-match of the Australian Open finals. With the stakes higher than ever, enthralling action is guaranteed. Can Novak re-write history and win the elusive Calendar Grand Slam?
Watch this story:
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