Uncertainty Clouds Novak Djokovic as ATP Finals Run Relies Solely on Local Favorite Jannik Sinner

Novak Djokovic has had a turbulent campaign at the ATP World Tour Finals. Dubbed one of the favorites to clinch the year-ending championship, Djokovic has had a difficult going in Turin. The Serb had to grind hard for his victories. Additionally, he suffered a heartbreaking defeat at the hands of Jannik Sinner in his second match at the tournament. As a result, his fate to proceed in the tournament hangs by a thin thread.

Earlier today, Djokovic overcame the challenge of Hubert Hurkacz in his final group-stage game. Despite the victory, his semifinal spot isn’t guaranteed yet, as he is pitted against one of the most talented wunderkinds out there.

How will Novak Djokovic qualify for the semifinal?

With his loss against Sinner, the Serb had to win his final group-stage game in straight sets. However, he dropped a set against Hurkacz before prevailing in three sets 7-6 (1), 4-6, 6-1. As a result, his semifinal hopes now bank on the result of the last group-stage match in the Green Group between Jannik Sinner and Holger Rune.

The Italian star now has Djokovic’s destiny in his racket. The equation is simple, though. If Sinner defeats Holger Rune, Djokovic and Sinner advance to the semifinals from the Green Group. On the other hand, if Sinner loses, Rune and Sinner will advance to the last 4. Irrespective of the result, Sinner has qualified for the semifinals.

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In what has been a memorable year for Djokovic, the end of it has been quite an eventful one. He’s seldom had to back on other players to qualify further and this time around, it presents a rare case. Moreover, he hasn’t had the best times with the Italian crowd. Recently, tennis legend, Tim Henman spoke about his altercation with the crowd.

Tim Henman’s take on Djokovic’s attitude

During the match against Sinner, Djokovic tried to overturn an umpire call where a marginal call went Sinner’s way. Seeing Djokovic appeal, it didn’t go down well with the local crowd, who were right behind Sinner to cheer him.

Assessing his attitude, Henman said, “Sometimes when Djokovic starts taking on a crowd, it is with much more animosity than he showed here. Here, he looked like he was enjoying it. Maybe it is a reflection of him ending the year as world No 1 whatever.”

The 24-time Grand Slam champion will be hoping that luck goes his way and Sinner claims victory later today so that he can qualify for the last 4. Who do you think will make it to the semifinals in Turin? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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