The Serbian maestro Novak Djokovic reveals his reasons to like the ATP tour in Rome after his defeat in the Italian Open.
Djokovic showcased some phenomenal performances at the Master 1000 series in Italy. The current World No.1 made his way to the finals but failed to claim the Italian Open title.
In a post-match interview after his defeat, Nole shared his thoughts on why he loves to visit Rome and play in the Italian clay court. Djokovic reported, “I love Italy. I mean who doesn’t, the history this city has and the country.”
Novak Djokovic of Serbia hits a forehand to Rafael Nadal of Spain during the men’s final at Foro Italico on May 16, 2021 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
“Then the food and it just brings me happiness every time I’m about to come to Italy and to play in Rome. And each year the love affair grows even more and bonds us stronger and stronger.” He further added.
Djokovic faced the ‘King of Clay’ Rafael Nadal in the finals of the Internazionali d’Italia. The final between two great veterans was a fierce neck-to-neck battle for the title. The Serb and Rafa pushed each other to the edge of the cliff since the first round. But Nadal won the first match against Djokovic.
However, World No.1 made an epic comeback in the next set and lost only a single point to Nadal. However, Nadal again dominated the Serb on the clay court, which is Rafa’s specialty. Therefore, Nole lost to the Spaniard with a score of 5-7, 6-1, 3-6.
Rafael Nadal of Spain celebrates with the trophy after winning the final over Novak Djokovic of Serbia during the men’s final at Foro Italico on May 16, 2021 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
Djokovic even mentioned after his loss to Nadal that facing at the clay court is a tough challenge. Further, the ‘King of Clay’ is the Italian Open favorite and thus it is not east to beat the Spaniard on clay.
Novak Djokovic is now gearing up for the upcoming Roland Garros, where he might old rivals Rafa and Roger Federer. Further, the young generation is aiming to dethrone Nole from his throne of ATP Rank 1.
