Double Defeat for Novak Djokovic: Italy Shocks Serbia in Davis Cup Semifinals
Novak Djokovic, the tennis legend, faced an unexpected setback as Italy triumphed over Serbia in the Davis Cup semifinals The two defeats suffered by Djokovic on Saturday left the tennis world in astonishment
Novak Djokovic's dominance on the tennis court is so immense that it's almost expected for him to win the majority of his matches. Therefore, when he suffered two unexpected losses on Saturday, it shocked the tennis world. It was especially surprising that he lost one match despite having three match points, as he is known for his exceptional ability to close out games as the world's top-ranked player.
In Malaga, Spain, Italy defeated Serbia 2-1, securing a spot in the Davis Cup final against Australia. Jannik Sinner caused a major upset by defeating Djokovic in a thrilling singles match, saving three match points and leading Italy to draw level with Serbia in the semifinal.
Sinner managed to convert the only break point he created against Djokovic in the decisive set, ultimately securing a remarkable victory. This marked the 22-year-old's second win over Djokovic in the same month, as he had previously defeated the 24-time grand slam champion in the group stages of the ATP Finals before ultimately losing to him in the final.
Later in the day, Djokovic suffered another defeat, this time alongside his compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic as they were beaten 6-3 6-4 in the doubles by Sinner and Lorenzo Sonego. This loss meant that Italy reached the final for the first time in 25 years, a significant achievement considering that Sinner wasn't even born the last time Italy achieved this feat.
Jannik Sinner has beaten Novak Djokovic twice this month.
Clive Brunskill/Getty Images for ITF
"Saving three match points at 0-40 down at 4-5 in the deciding set was definitely a game-changer today," said world No. 4 Sinner, as reported by Reuters.
"I simply focused on pushing through in every single point, and that game at 0-40 really boosted my confidence, as did breaking him afterward. It's all just part of the game of tennis."
"Playing doubles in the final match of a Davis Cup tie is undeniably challenging. Despite the pressure, we both handled the situation admirably. As a team, we are well-rounded and thrilled to be here." Djokovic's season has been exceptional, winning three of the four grand slams and securing a record eighth season-ending ATP Finals title.
The defeat marked the first loss for the Serb in a singles Davis Cup match since 2011, when he had to retire due to injury against Juan Martin del Potro of Argentina.
"Personally, it's incredibly disappointing for me because I feel responsible, especially after having three match points and being so close to victory," Djokovic expressed on the Davis Cup website.
"When you lose for your country, the bitter feeling is even greater."
