As the 2023 ATP Finals approached the semifinals, Andy Roddick, a former tennis luminary, shared intriguing insights into Novak Djokovic’s mindset and Jannik Sinner’s remarkable triumph in the tournament.
Following Djokovic’s qualification for the semifinals, Roddick interpreted the Serb’s post-match remarks, suggesting that Djokovic’s larger goal of concluding the year as World No. 1 had already been fulfilled.
Roddick highlighted Djokovic’s statement, stating, “Novak [Djokovic] wasn’t indifferent about the match’s outcome. He meant, ‘It’s beyond my control’. His aim was simple: win a match for a shot at the semis or relaxation, both favorable scenarios.”
The former World No. 1 speculated that Djokovic might have been primarily focused on ending the year atop the ATP rankings, a feat he accomplished earlier in the tournament by defeating Holger Rune. Roddick acknowledged Djokovic’s calm demeanor, citing his extensive six ATP Finals victories.
“Entering the semifinals, Djokovic aims for match practice before winding down or preparing for Australia. Multiple wins in this tournament allow him a more composed outlook,” Roddick observed. He emphasized Djokovic’s experience, noting his ability to remain unfazed by tournament outcomes.
Regarding Sinner’s triumph over Djokovic, Roddick expressed admiration, suggesting that defeating the World No. 1 could mark a significant milestone in Sinner’s career trajectory.
“When reflecting on [Jannik] Sinner’s career, he might perceive this match as a turning point or the beginning of a journey towards becoming a Grand Slam champion,” Roddick commented on Tennis Channel.
Roddick praised Sinner’s resilience in defeating Djokovic and emphasized the rarity of Djokovic delivering an outstanding performance yet not clinching victory.
“Sinner displayed exceptional effort throughout the match. Despite Djokovic’s impressive performance, Sinner was on top, dictating points and displaying impeccable shot-making,” Roddick remarked. “His ability to challenge Djokovic’s dominance on the court was truly impressive,” he concluded.
The tennis world eagerly awaits the ATP Finals’ climax, with Roddick’s astute analysis shedding light on Djokovic’s composed mindset and Sinner’s remarkable accomplishment against the World No. 1.
Jannik Sinner in 2023
WWWLWWWWWW At the moment ranked no.4 (career-high), the Italian played his last match on the 16th of November when he defeated world no.8 Holger Rune 6-2 5-7 6-4 in the round robin in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
This season Jannik has managed to achieve an overall 60-14 win-loss record. Sinner has won 4 titles in 2023 in Montpellier, Toronto, Beijing and Vienna. Jannik was the finalist in Rotterdam and Miami.
Novak Djokovic in 2023
LWLWWWLWLW Currently ranked no.1, Djokovic played his last match on the 16th of November when he overcame world no.9 Hubert Hurkacz 7-6(1) 4-6 6-1 in the round robin in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
This year Djokovic has managed to achieve an overall 53-6 record. Djokovic clinched 6 titles in 2023 in Adelaide, Australian Open, French Open, Cincinnati, U.S. Open and Paris. The Serbian was the runner-up in Wimbledon.
Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic clashed against each other 4 times. The head to head is 3-1 for Djokovic. The last time they played each other, Jannik Sinner won 7-5 6-7(5) 7-6(2) in the round robin in Turin (Nitto ATP Finals) on the 14th of November 2023.
In the video below you can watch the highlights.
