Novak Djokovic defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-0, 7-6 in the final at Rome to win the Italian Open title
Novak Djokovic boosted his preparations for next week’s French Open by winning his first title of the year at the Italian Open in Rome. The World No.1 put up a dominant display and cruised through the first set. The second set was a close affair as Djokovic fought back after Tsitsipas took a 4-1 lead and the Serbian eventually won the match in straight sets.
Speaking after his win, a relieved Djokovic said, “I could not ask for a better lead-up to Roland Garros. I’m going to Paris with confidence and good feelings about my chances there.”
He further added, “After everything that happened at the beginning of the year, it was important for me to win a big title, especially with Grand Slams coming up where obviously I want to play my best. Everything that I was feeling in the first few months of the year, as much as I’ve felt pressure in my life and my career, that was something really on a whole different level. But I feel it’s already behind me. I feel great on the court. Mentally as well. I’m fresh. I’m sharp.”
Novak Djokovic is aiming to defend his Roland Garros title in Paris. Djokovic will be one of the favorites as he chases a record-equalling 21st Grand Slam at the French Open, which starts next Sunday in Paris. The Serbian has had a dismal 2022 so far and the win at the Italian Open acts as a great confidence booster for him going into the second Grand Slam of the year.
World No.1 was out of action from the ATP tour for two months after he was not allowed to participate in the Indian Wells Masters and Miami Open for not being vaccinated against Covid-19. Playing after a gap of two months, Djokovic failed to find his rhythm in the Monte Carlo Masters and suffered a shock exit after a loss in his very first match against the unseeded Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Djokovic made it to the finals of the Serbia Open but lost on home turf to Andrey Rublev.
After a title-winning campaign in Rome, Djokovic has certainly got things back on track. He will be confident of making it count in Paris and defending his title.
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