Background on Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic, ranked 5th in the world, secured his 101st ATP title on Saturday by defeating Italian Lorenzo Musetti 4-6, 6-3, and 7-5 in the ATP 250 final in Athens. At 38 years and five months, Djokovic is the oldest player to win a title since Australian Ken Rosewall, who won in Hong Kong at 43 in 1977.
Djokovic’s Recent Title Drought and Comeback
Djokovic had not won a title since his victory in May at the ATP 250 tournament in Ginebra. His triumph in Athens ends this title drought and brings him closer to Roger Federer’s record of 103 titles and Jimmy Connors’ record of 109 trophies.
Impact on Musetti and the ATP Masters
By defeating Musetti for the ninth time in ten encounters, Djokovic prevented the Italian from securing a spot in the prestigious ATP Masters in Turin, which will gather the top eight players with the most ATP points at season’s end. Musetti needed to win in Athens to overtake Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime for the eighth and final qualifying position.
Tournament Details and Djokovic’s Future in Turin
The tournament, directed by Djordje Djokovic (Novak’s younger brother), was initially planned for Belgrade, similar to 2024. However, the ATP announced in August that it would take place in Athens instead, without providing reasons for the change. Djokovic has already secured his spot in Turin but maintains uncertainty about his participation until the last moment.
Djokovic’s Political Stance in Serbia
In recent months, Djokovic has been spotted frequently in Greece, even alongside Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Known for avoiding political comments, Djokovic has expressed support for students protesting against the Serbian government and President Aleksandar Vucic. These stances have put him at odds with Serbian authorities and made him a target for tabloids close to power.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Novak Djokovic? Novak Djokovic is a 38-year-old tennis player ranked 5th in the world, with 24 Grand Slam titles.
- Why is his recent victory in Athens significant? This win marks Djokovic’s 101st ATP title, bringing him closer to Roger Federer’s record of 103 titles and Jimmy Connors’ record of 109 trophies.
- What impact did Djokovic’s victory have on Lorenzo Musetti? Musetti was denied a spot in the ATP Masters in Turín, as he needed to win in Athens to secure the eighth and final qualifying position.
- Why was the tournament moved from Belgrade to Athens? The ATP announced the change in August, stating that they could not guarantee the required conditions for the tournament in its original format and date.
- What is Djokovic’s political stance in Serbia? Despite usually avoiding political comments, Djokovic has shown support for students protesting against the Serbian government and President Aleksandar Vucic, which has strained his relationship with authorities.
