Novak Djokovic downs Andy Roddick to advance to semi-finals
Novak Djokovic crushed Andy Roddick in straight-sets 6-2, 6-3 at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in London Friday November 26. With the win, Djokovic is scheduled
to play world number two Roger Federer in what looks to be a blockbuster semi-final match up for Saturday November 27.
Djokovic last defeated Federer in a thrilling five set semi-final match at the US Open in September, where he saved two match points en-route to victory.
“I think it's great for the tournament to see us playing in the semi-final. And then on the other hand Nadal and Murray,” Djokovic stated.
Djokovic finished second in Group A, behind world number one Rafael Nadal, with a 2-1 record. He is opening to repeat his previous success at the year-end tournament
which he won in 2008 in Shanghai defeating Davydenko in the finals.
“It's going to be a great atmosphere. It's the last tournament of the year, except the Davis Cup final that I'm playing next week. It's a great achievement that
I already reached the semi-final. I will try to give my best tomorrow night.” Djokovic remarked regarding his upcoming match.
Djokovic, known for his practical jokes, walked onto court with an eye patch over his right eye poking fun at the contact lens problems he had against Nadal on
Wednesday November 24. British media pounced on him, accusing him of hypochondria.
It didn't bother him. Djokovic demolished Roddick in 66 minutes. Djokovic served six aces, and no double faults, and converting all three of his break point opportunities,
capitalizing on Roddick’s errors.
“I knew I had to be kind of in a control of the rallies, and I did that,” Djokovic opined on his match. “I needed to get a lot of returns back. I did that, as well.
I was using the forehands quite well. So [I am] just happy with the overall performance. It's never easy. You got to make these shots. You've got to get his serves back in the court and try to win the rallies.”
Roddick, who needed a straight-sets victory over Djokovic to advance to the semi-finals, committed 22 unforced errors, to allow Djokovic his first victory over
the American since the 2008 US Open quarter-finals.
Round-robin play at the year-end tournament in London wrapped up Friday November 26. The semi-final match ups are set for Saturday November 27, which will feature
Djokovic taking on Federer, and Murray set for battle against world number one Rafael Nadal.
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