Gritty Djokovic survives another battle in Monte Carlo

By
Mark Hall
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Another day, another battle for Novak Djokovic.

The world no.2 had to fight hard against Gilles Simon in the opener at the Principality, and yesterday he had to endure another tough three setter against Pablo Carreno-Busta.

Everything looked perfect for the Serb after he was enjoying a comfortable 6-2 2-0 lead. Then, Nole had to bow to the Spaniard to concede five consecutive games (2-5) and lose the second set. Djokovic looked good again in the decider after he broke Pablo in the 6th game (4-2), but he surrendered his own serve soon after (4-3). Eventually, the world no.2 found the solution after a fierce dogfight to conquer the match. The final result was 6-2 4-6 6-4.

He is very difficult to play. DJOKOVIC

After the match, during the press conference, Nole commented

“It’s great to overcome the big challenge presented to me today with this kind of win, even though I haven’t played the way I wanted. He’s very difficult to play against. He’s always making you play an extra ball. It’s a win I’ll take as a great confidence boost. I’m confident that with dedication and commitment and a positive mindset, I can get to the level where I want to be.”

Next vs. Goffin

Nole will play David Goffin in the quarters. Thea head to head is 5-0 for the Serb that has conceded only 1 set to David (on 12 played).

IN THE QUARTERS