Novak Djokovic beat up Rafael Nadal in an absolute tennis classic on Friday night to make the final of the French internationals. It was a first defeat for Nadal in the semi-final of Roland Garros and this match aroused many emotions in both players. Djokovic triumphed 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 in grueling four hours and 11 minutes, condemning Nadal to just his third loss in 16 years and 108 appearances at Roland Garros. The match was so epic that the 5,000 spectators inside the Philippe Chatrier court were allowed to watch the end of the match despite the 11pm Covid-19 curfew being exceeded. “By agreement with the national authorities, the match will end in your presence,” a stadium announcer told the delighted fans.
As the match unfolded, Andy Murray and Victoria Azarenka had expressed their displeasure that part of this incredible showdown would be played out in an empty stadium.
“And now it’s almost curfew time and people will be leaving. Perfect (sarcasm). Because scheduling matches earlier is not possible, ”Azarenka said. Andy Murray, meanwhile, said: “I can’t believe this game is going to end without a crowd. Why does tennis do this? “
However, the French authorities lifted the curfew on the public at Roland Garros overnight to let greatness flow in Paris without interruption.
With the victory, Djokovic became the only player to beat Nadal twice at Roland Garros, stayed on track for a 19th Grand Slam title, to become the first man in over 50 years to win the four slams.
After the game Djokovic said it was the biggest game he has ever played in Paris and Twitter seemed to agree. Here are some of the big reactions from their fellow gamers to the game.
How is Eva so poised and serene during this match ???? – Maria Sharapova (@MariaSharapova) June 11, 2021
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My ?? will be over after a match… – Kim Clijsters (@Clijsterskim) June 11, 2021
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The level is crazy but victoria azarenka (@ vika7) June 11, 2021
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Looking forward to watching this game. Novak’s unreal effort / execution. He was the best player of the day. What a match… – andyroddick (@andyroddick) June 11, 2021
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Djokovic will face Grand Slam finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas for the first time on Sunday to win the Roland-Garros trophy. Tsitsipas had previously become the first Greek to reach a Grand Slam final with a 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 4-6, 6-3 victory over Germany’s Alexander Zverev.
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