Novak Djokovic v Stefanos Tsitsipas French Open 2020 Semi-Final: Preview, Head-to-Head, Predictions

Novak Djokovic is unbeaten in 2020. After getting eliminated from the US Open 2020 in an unfortunate manner, he displayed exemplary tenacity at the Italian Open, proving that he was on course to win his second French Open title.

However, a 22-year-old youngster who has earned his first semi-final ticket at the Roland Garros stands in his path to Grand Slam glory. The World No. 5, Stefanos Tsitsipas, has come a long way, beating both Andrey Rublev and Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets. He is thirsty and wants to break the semifinals curse by qualifying for his first Grand Slam final.

Novak Djokovic v Stefanos Tsitsipas: Preview

Slower conditions at the French Open 2020 are proving to be a blessing in disguise for the World No.1. Rafael Nadal‘s coach had claimed that these conditions suit Djokovic.

However, Pablo Carreno Busta proved that the Serbian legend can be challenged in these conditions, given that one doesn’t give away easy points and engages him in long rallies. In fact, Novak lost the first set to Busta 4-6 in his quarterfinal match.

But what’s troublesome for Djokovic at the moment are his neck injury concerns. He was forced to call his medical team on the court in his recent match. Fortunately, there aren’t any serious issues with his neck so far.

On the other hand, Stefanos Tsitsipas is currently enjoying his best form. In his first match at Roland Garros 2020, he proved his mettle by thriving in adverse circumstances. Being 2 sets down against Jaume Munar, he was able to win the next 3 and make a terrific comeback.

Even in the 20-point tie-breaker against Dimitrov in the fourth round, he saved a couple of set-points, didn’t lose his calm, and won the match-defining set 11-9.

Djokovic v Tsitsipas: Head-to-Head

The 2 great athletes have faced each other on 5 previous occasions. Djokovic currently maintains a lead of 3-2 over Tsitsipas. But, this is the first time that the two are up against each other in a Grand Slam match. This is a golden opportunity for the Greek player to make the scoreline even.

In their only match on clay, Djokovic walked away with the victory. It was the final of the ATP Masters 1000 Madrid Masters. This is a platform for Tsitsipas to show that he can be as good on clay as on any other surface.

In their last encounter which took place in the finals of the Dubai Tennis Championships in 2020, it was Djokovic again who conquered Tsitsipas in straight sets.

Read More: Novak Djokovic heaps huge praise for Stefanos Tsitsipas ahead of Semi-final clash at French Open 2020

Djokovic v Tsitsipas: Prediction

Novak Djokovic will surely start as the favorite for most of the fans and experts. But, one should not forget the mind-boggling upsets that have taken place at the French Open 2020.

Stefanos Tsitsipas has a big serve. He produces a lot of spin which can be lethal for the Djokovic, especially under slower conditions.

His accurate forehand and backhand winners are his strength. But, the biggest advantage for the 22-year-old is that he covers the ground quickly, giving him an edge in the long rallies. The only drawback for him is that he doesn’t have the experience of big matches.

However, one must not forget that he is about to face a 17-time Grand Slam winner. Djokovic has repeatedly proven why he deserves to be No.1. His return of service, no matter how quick and precise the serve is, remains phenomenal.

Regardless of that, the semi-final will surely not be a cake-walk for him. It is going to be an intriguing contest. Tsitsipas has the skills and technique while Djokovic has the experience and temperament. The winner of the match will meet either Rafael Nadal or Diego Schwartzman in the finals of the French Open 2020.

Also Read: Rafael Nadal v Diego Schwartzman: Preview, Head-to-Head, Predictions