Djokovic Close To History After Taking First Set At Nitto ATP Finals

Novak Djokovic held firm to clinch the first set 7-5 against Casper Ruud on Sunday at the Nitto ATP Finals, where the Serbian is now just one set away from becoming champion for a record-equalling sixth time.

After sealing straight-sets semi-final victories on Saturday, both players picked up where they left off in the championship match in Turin, where they hit confidently through their groundstrokes to try and pressure their opponent in some riveting early exchanges. It was Djokovic who remained the greater threat on return, however, and despite letting slip break point chances in the second and eighth games he made a decisive move at 6-5 to seal a set in which he struck 14 winners, including six aces.

The Rome, Wimbledon, Tel Aviv and Astana champion Djokovic is seeking to win the Nitto ATP Finals in a third different city. The Serbian triumphed in Shanghai in 2008 and in London in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. Should he go on to defeat Ruud, he will match Swiss great Roger Federer’s tally of six titles won at the prestigious season finale.

More to follow…

[ATP APP]