By Daily Sports on August 20, 2018

Novak Djokovic has become the first player in history to win all nine Masters 1000 titles after defeating Roger Federer 6-4,6-4, in the final of the Western and Southern Open.

Sunday’s clash in Cincinnati was the resumption of one of the biggest rivalries in men’s tennis. It was the first time the two players have locked horns on the tour for two-and-a-half years with Djokovic narrowly leading their head-to-head 23-22. The Serbian managed to extend his stronghold with a solid display reminiscent of what he produced on route to winning the Wimbledon title. In total, he produced 12 winners to 16 unforced errors. A sharp contrast to Federer’s more erratic tally of 22 and 39.

“It’s obviously a very special moment. It is the first time I get to stand here (on court) with the winning trophy in Cincinnati. ” Djokovic said during the trophy ceremony.

“I have played in five finals before and most of those finals, I have lost to this great man, Roger.“

Heading into the final, Federer was yet to drop his serve in the tournament after winning 43 consecutive service games in a row. That record was instantly under threat against a determined Djokovic as the Swiss world No.2 was forced to save two break points at the start of the match. Despite missing out on the early chance, Djokovic’s relentless defensive display paid off later in the opening set. At 3-3, a Federer double fault handed the Serbian another chance to break. This time he managed to prevail after a Federer mishit. Leaving the 20-time grand slam champion bemused as he received a warning for an audio obscenity.

In pole position, the world No.10 extended his lead with relative ease. A 113 mph serve down the line was returned out by his arch rival to reward Djokovic two set points. He managed to convert on his first after a Federer backhand slammed into the back on the net.

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Historically winning the first set has been significant in their rivalry. Djokovic had won 16 out of 17 matches against Federer after claiming the first set. Nevertheless, the straightforward journey was not to be. Back-to-back Djokovic errors elevated Federer to a 2-0 lead at the start of set number two. Briefly reviving his chances of an eighth title in Cincinnati.

Despite the blip, the Wimbledon champion valiantly battled back to draw level as he dictated the rallies from the baseline. Continuing to close in on his first Masters title since 2016, Djokovic once again broke for a 4-3 lead after Federer squandered a 40-0 advantage. Closing in on the historic achievement, he roared towards the finish line as his opponent continued to leak errors. Sealing his 70th ATP title with the help of a Federer mistake on match point.

“It was a tough match for him today. He probably didn’t feel his best, but he’s a great champion and probably the best ever to play this game.” Djokovic commented about Federer’s performance.

The latest milestone comes just eight months after Djokovic began his comeback to the tour from a serious elbow injury. Since June, he has won 18 out of 20 matches played. Claiming titles at Wimbledon and now Cincinnati.

“I have been through a little bit of a roller coaster ride in my career with injury, taking time off and having surgery earlier this year. So, this seems a bit unreal to be honest, to be back at this level.” He reflected.

Djokovic now has 31 Masters 1000 titles to his name, the second highest of all time behind Rafael Nadal. Something that has drawn admiration from runner-up Federer.

“Congratulations Novak on writing history today. It’s an amazing effort – not just this week, not just this day, but your whole career to get to this point in an amazing achievement.” He said.

As a result of his triumph, Djokovic will rise to sixth in the world rankings on Monday. He is the final player to defeat Federer in a final at the Western and Southern Open. (Ubitennis.net)

•Photo shows Djokovic

Source Daily Sports

Posted August 20, 2018

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