Djokovic fails in his home tournament in the semifinals
Novak Djokovic has to admit defeat to Russian Aslan Karatsev 5: 7, 6: 4, 4: 6 at the ATP event in Belgrade in the new edition of the Australian Open semifinals.
24.04.2021
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Novak Djokovic suffered a severe defeat in front of his home crowd at the Serbia Open. After the end, he proves his qualities as a fair loser.
In the quarter-finals of the Serbia Open, the big favorite fails after a grueling fight against the amazing Russian Aslan Karatsev, who can fend off no less than 23 breakballs during the game. After almost three and a half hours the surprise is perfect, Karatsev finally wins 7: 5, 4: 6, 6: 4 and meets Matteo Berrettini in the final on Sunday.
Djokovic, on the other hand, has to give up prematurely in his home country. “You never like losing at home, that’s for sure. It’s disappointing. I don’t feel well, but at the same time I have to congratulate Karatsev, who played very bravely, “says the Serb after his departure – and alludes to the numerous missed break opportunities:” Whenever he had to show the best strokes, he did it. Congratulations to him, a great achievement on his part. “
Djokovic, on the other hand, is not at all satisfied with his own appearance. «I played at a pretty low level. (…) But I fought, that’s positive. I tried every way, ”said the 33-year-old, who also thanked the fans. “They carried me and tried to pull me up to the end. I think it was because of them that I won the second set. “
The bottom line, however, was that Karatsev was the better player and deserved winner that day, emphasizes Djokovic and once again proves that he is an extraordinarily fair loser. “When the last point is played, there is never bad blood. We’re rivals on the pitch, but I don’t hate anyone. I can’t get upset about him if he hits me, “the Serb makes clear, adding:” Whoever hits me deserves the recognition and I gave it to him. “
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