Alexander Zverev sees Novak Djokovic as the favorite for the final of the French Open, but he couldn’t imagine a better time for challenger Casper Ruud either.
With a victory in the final on Sunday (2.30 p.m. / Eurosport) at the classic clay court in Paris, the 36-year-old Serb Djokovic would secure the sole record for Grand Slam titles in men’s tennis.
“It’s the best scenario for Casper, to be honest,” said Zverev after his semifinal defeat against the 24-year-old Norwegian. “Novak is one of the best players in the world, but when he’s on the brink of history, that puts a little more pressure.”
Djokovic is currently tied with the Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the all-time leaderboard and could win the French Open for the third time. “If I had to bet money, I wouldn’t bet too much on Casper,” Zverev said with a smile. ‘But does he have a chance? Yes he has.”
records
– With the 23rd triumph, Djokovic would have the sole record in men’s tennis. In the women’s category, the American Serena Williams has also won 23 Grand Slams – one less than Margaret Court from Australia. – A win would see Djokovic become the oldest winner in the long history of the French Open, replacing Nadal, who was also 36 in his 14th Paris win last year. This year the Spaniard is injured.
– Djokovic would become the first man to win every Grand Slam tournament three times.
– Should the Serb prevail in the final, he would also recapture world number one from Alcaraz. It would be the 388th week as a leader – he already has that record anyway.
The outsider
Norwegian Ruud is one of the most stable, but possibly also the least noticed absolute top stars. Also because he still lacks the big title. For him it is already the third Grand Slam final. Last year he lost to Nadal in Paris and his compatriot Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open.
Previous duels
The two have met four times so far – Djokovic prevailed four times and did not lose a set. The Norwegian hasn’t had a chance on Ruud’s favorite surface either.
That’s what Djokovic says
«The Grand Slams drive me the most. I won the first Grand Slam this year and now I’m in the final of a second one, I couldn’t ask for more. As for the records at stake – it’s flattering, it’s great. But I have to win to be on this list.”
That’s what Ruud says
«Novak played this tournament great and at Grand Slams he still raises his level. It’s going to be a tough challenge, I’ve never beaten him. That’s why I need a better plan and I have to show my best game.”
2023-06-11 21:52:32
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