“Most Underrated Player” – Novak Djokovic Lauds Roberto Bautista Agut Ahead of Western & Southern Open Clash

Novak Djokovic reached a record-equalling eight semi-final at the Western & Southern Open. He defeated Jan-Lennard Struff in straight sets to set up a clash with World No. 12 Roberto Bautista Agut.

Djokovic won a straightforward match with 6-3 6-1. H would have expected Daniil Medvedev in the semis, but Bautista Agut displayed one of his best performances to defeat the defending champion. Bautista Agut lost the first set heavily, but made a comeback into the match to set up a clash with the World No.1 and win the match 1-6 6-4 6-3.

“Roberto Bautista Agut deserves more respect” – Novak Djokovic

After his match, Djokovic spoke about Roberto and appreciated the Spaniard’s game. He indicated that Roberto doesn’t make many mistakes and is the most underrated player on tour.

“His style of play, he is consistent and doesn’t make many errors, he doesn’t drop his level. He is probably the most underrated player in the last five years and deserves more respect than he gets. His win over Medvedev reminded me of our match in Miami,” Djokovic said.

Bautista Agut’s win over Medvedev was very similar to his win over Djokovic in Miami last year. Even back then, he turned his game around after losing the first set 6-1 and went on to stun Djokovic. It’s understandable why Djokovic holds Roberto Bautista Agut in high regard.

”We always expect Roberto to play on a certain level. He doesn’t drop much. He doesn’t give it away. You have to earn your points. He is so solid from the back of the court. Roberto found a way and that is obviously a virtue of champions.” Djokovic said.

Read More: “One of the Most Unfortunate Players”: Novak Djokovic Has Sympathy For Juan Martin Del Potro

Since the season began, it has given us some shocking results and upsets. But Djokovic has soldiered on and raised his 2020 winning streak to 21-0. It remains to be seen if Bautista Agut can bring an end to that streak.