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Eight-time champion Novak Djokovic (Serbia) qualified for the ninth final of the Australian Open.
The world ranking leader hit 17 aces and gave qualifier Aslan Karatsev of Russia no special chances and won categorically with 6: 3, 6: 4, 6: 2 in 113 minutes on “Rod Laver Arina”.
The Belgrade player took the first set with a single breakthrough in the eighth game, and in the second half was ahead with 5: 1, followed by a small drop, but at 5: 4 he managed to close the set with his second chance. in your own service.
Djokovic blew a 2-0 lead in the third half, but then clinched the final victory with four straight games.
After the match, the Serbian paid tribute to the 114th world ranking Karatsev, who is the first rookie to go through the qualifiers, reaching the semifinals of the Grand Slam tournaments.
“We have to congratulate him. On his debut, he reached the semi-finals, which has never happened in the history of tennis. He played a great tournament,” said Djokovic.
The Serb had complained of physical problems in recent days, but there were no signs of them today.
“I haven’t felt this good since the beginning of the tournament. I could have hit for free, I didn’t have any pain. I think I played my best game this year. I’m excited to feel that way. Now I have two days off and we will judge. How to cook. Definitely. I will train in one of them, maybe on Saturday. Recovery is the most important thing. Now I have the most important match of the tournament ahead of me, “added the Belgrade resident.
Djokovic will seek the 18th title in his 28th final of the Slam tournaments.
In Sunday’s trophy match, await the winner of the match between Daniil Medvedev (Russia) and Stefanos Tsitsipas (Greece), who play tomorrow.
Medvedev has been playing at the highest level in recent months. On a winning streak, Stefanos made a big change against Rafa. It will certainly be an intense match. I have no preference for the opponent, “said Djokovic.
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