Novak Djokovik Wins His Second Monte-Carlo Masters

Novak Djokovic once again found himself under pressure early in the match, but the Serbian held his nerve and was able to win his second monte-carlo crown over the sixth seed Czech Tomas Berdych 7-5, 4-6, 6-3.

The world No.1 became the first player to clinch the opening three ATP masters 1000 trophy of a season. The 27 year old entered Monte-Carlo on the back of completing the Indian Wells-Miami double for a third time and leaves the list with 23 Masters 1000 trophies, drawing level with Roger Federer for second on the titles list.

Sixth seed Berdych provided a real test for Djokovic despite a 2-18 record against the top seed. But two breaks of serve were still not enough for the Czech in the opening set.

In overcast conditions, and with both men complaining about the slippery court, Djokovic secured the set at the second attempt.

The Serb was still not at his best and did well to recover from 0-40 at 2-2 in the second before the rain came and forced the players off the court for an hour.

Another chance for Djokovic to break slipped by on the resumption and it was Berdych who found something closer to top form as he grabbed his chance to level at one set all.

Djokovic looked on course for his 11th love set of the year when he raced 4-0 clear in the decider but Berdych pegged him back again and the 2013 champion required two hours and 43 minutes to wrap up a hard-fought win.

The Serb hopes to complete the career Grand Slam with a first title at the French Open, which starts next month.

 Edited by Shuvam Kumar