World No.1 Novak Djokovic has fired a warning to upcoming opponent Rafael Nadal after crushing France’s Lucas Pouille 6-0, 6-2, 6-2, in the semi-finals of the Australian Open.
Djokovic, who is bidding to win the Melbourne major for a record seventh time, dominated proceedings from the onset against his nerve-stricken rival. Heading into the match, Djokovic was wary of the potential threat Pouille posed. The world No.31 scored back-to-back wins over Borna Coric and Milos Raonic to reach his maiden grand slam semi-final. However, the top seed proved too dominant in what was one of the most one-sided semi-final matches in grand slam history. Pouille’s serve failed to make an impact as his tentative second serve was punished by Djokovic, who broke him seven times in the match.
“It’s definitely one of the best matches I’ve ever had on this court (Rod Laver). Everything worked. The way I imagined if before the match and even more so. “ Djokovic said during his on-court interview.
“It was a tough one for Lucas, but he’s had a great tournament. I wish him all the best for the rest of the season.” He added.
Playing on the Rod Laver Arena, Djokovic required only 83 minutes to ease past his lacklustre opponent and seal a place in the final. The one-sided performance saw the Serbian hit 24 winners to just five unforced errors without facing a single break point. The win is his 10th consecutive one in a grand slam semi-final.
“He definitely has the quality to be a top 10 player. It was his first grand slam semi-final, the occasion is different.” The 14-time grand slam champion said of his opponent. “There is more weight, more important during the match. I’m sure he’s going to get more matches like these in the later stages of grand slams.”
A year ago doubts were raised about Djokovic’s future in the sport. Coming back from a six-month absence due to an elbow injury, he experienced a lacklustre start to 2018. Then from July onwards, he dominated the tour by winning two grand slams and two Masters 1000 titles. A performance that has seen him rise to the top of the rankings. A turnaround that has been achieved with the help of coach Marian Vajda and his own belief.
“It was highly unlikely 12 months ago that I would be where I am today.” The 31-year-old admits. “I always had plenty of belief in myself and I think the self-belief is something that always prevails. There was always part of me that believed I could play this way. That was key.”
As a result of his one-sided encounter, Djokovic will take on Nadal for the chance to clinch his 15th grand slam title. Nadal defeated Next Gen star Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets on Thursday. It will be the 53rd meeting between the two and the eighth in a grand slam final. Overall, Djokovic leads their head-to-head 27-25.
The last time the two clashed in the Melbourne final was back in 2012. On that Occasion Djokovic prevailed in a marathon encounter that lasted almost six hours.
“That was a once in a lifetime experience.” Djokovic recounted about the 2012 final. “Hopefully the outcome (this year) can be the same for me.”
Should Djokovic win the Australian Open title, he would become the most successful male player of all-time in the tournament’s 114-year history with seven titles.
