Can Djokovic Withstand Tsitsipas Storm?
Roland Garros
June 12, 2021
Novak Djokovic won an epic semi-final against Rafael Nadal and now faces another monumental challenge.
Can he withstand the physical power of Stefanos Tsitsipas on Sunday?
It’s another delicious challenge for Djokovic and one with special implications for Wimbledon 2021.
If Djokovic beats the Greek, he will move to 19 Grand Slams in his illustrious career.
Roger Federer and Nadal are currently tied on 20 Grand Slams.
Indeed Federer won’t be too upset that his friend Rafa didn’t manage to edge ahead of him in the battle to become the greatest player of all time.
Most thought Nadal would prevail against Djokovic and eventually register an historic 21 Slams before leaving Paris for Wimbledon.
Indeed the Spaniard went a set ahead, and had a set point to go 2-1 up. But he succumbed to a magical drop shot and then fluffed an easy-looking volley in the pivotal third-set tie-break.
So Djokovic won through to face Tsitsipas, who had overcome Sascha Zverev 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 4-6, 6-3 to reach the showpiece.
Many would love Tsitsipas to win his first Grand Slam final. He is the new Bjorn Borg. He is transcending our sport.
Tsitsipas is a true superstar with film star looks and the all-round game to match the hype.
It’s thrilling that Tsitsipas is in such hot form so close to Wimbledon 2021!
But Djokovic is incredibly highly motivated right now. He sees history beckoning.
He will have to withstand the young Greek’s power game to fulfil his ambitions, though.
And make no mistake, Stefanos will come at Novak with all guns blazing.
But Djokovic is the more masterful player. He has the sporting intelligence to find ways to neutralise Tsitsipas.
And Novak’s biggest enemy might just be the psychological slump that is always a worry after victory on clay against his greatest rival.
But he has the chance to become the first player in over fifty years to win every Grand Slam at least twice.
And he already has five wins from his seven matches against Stefanos.
If Djokovic can play the right mind game and let his ambition inspire him, that 19th Grand Slam could be just hours away.
Then Djokovic would have the chance to draw level with Federer and Nadal at Wimbledon 2021!
Federer will do all he can to prevent that from happening.
The dynamic at Wimbledon and the historical context will become irresistible.
How could anyone miss this uniquely dramatic Wimbledon.
Will you be there?
Click here to secure your tickets to this year’s Championships.