Novak makes robust begin in Athens

Novak Djokovic started his marketing campaign on the inaugural Vanda Prescribed drugs Hellenic Championship in Athens with a strong win.

The highest seed defeated Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo (ATP no.89) within the second spherical, 7-6 (3), 6-1, after one hour and 39 minutes of play.

This was Novak’s first profession win over Tabilo. The Chilean nonetheless leads their H2H 2-1.

The primary set was tight, with each gamers enjoying at a excessive stage. Novak missed two break factors within the opening sport. Each gamers held serve comfortably till the tie-break, the place Novak raised his sport, took early management, and closed it out 7–3. The set lasted 68 minutes, and Novak’s stronger play in key moments made the distinction. He hit 18 winners in comparison with Tabilo’s 10 and made three unforced errors lower than his rival.

The turning level within the second set got here within the fourth sport, when Novak broke Tabilo’s serve and took full command of the match. From there, he stayed strong, added one other break close to the top, and calmly completed the job.

“It feels actually at residence, enjoying in Athens,” mentioned Djokovic, who just lately relocated to Athens. “A number of months in the past once I got here right here with my household, I used to be very excited as a result of I’ve at all times beloved Greece. Serbians love Greece, for certain. Traditionally, culturally, and religiously, we now have lots of issues connecting us. Athens is in my coronary heart, no query about it.”

Match statistics: aces (13-4), double faults (0-1), winners (27-12), unforced errors (21-23), whole factors gained (73-48).

Within the quarter-finals, Novak will face Nuno Borges (POR, 6). It will likely be their first-ever assembly.

Picture: Profimedia