Novak Djokovic ended Rafael Nadal’s “tyranny” at the French Open on Friday, with a spectacular semi-final victory that will go down as one of the greatest matches in the tournament’s history.
The Serb won 3-6 6-3 7-6 (7-4) 6-2 and defeated ‘Rafa’, who had won the last four editions of this Grand Slam.
The result ended the Spaniard’s dream of winning his 14th Roland Garros title and further extending his incredible record. Djokovic’s victory becomes even more impressive when we consider that this is only the third time anyone has beaten Nadal at this tournament (in 108 matches).
During the first set, the match was entertaining, but luck did not smile on Djokovic who faced a 5-0 deficit. He managed to close the gap slightly, but it was not enough.
In the second set, Djokovic was more accurate and paid Nadal back in kind.
The third set was the best of all, a thrilling battle in which both players took advantage and squandered break points. In the tie-break, Djokovic was relentless.
In the fourth set, an exhausted Nadal began to make mistakes and ‘Nole’ (who kept up his great pace) showed no mercy.
The world number one will face Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final on Sunday. The Greek beat Alexander Zverev 6-3 6-3 4-6 4-6 6-3.
