Djokovic Advances to Abu Dhabi Finals—Nathan’s Blog

Written by: Staff on 30th December 2011

Djokovic Advances to Abu Dhabi Finals—Nathan’s Blog |

By: Nathan M. Cuny

Novak Djokovic is already warming up after defeating both Gael Monfils and Roger Federer at the World Tennis Championship exhibition in Abu Dhabi. Djokovic took on No. 15 Gael Monfils on Thursday defeating him 6-2, 4-6, 6-2. On Friday, Djokovic faced Roger Federer in the semifinals beating him 6-2, 6-1. Djokovic and David Ferrer face off in Saturday’s final for the title.

The World Tennis Championship exhibition in Abu Dhabi Djokovic’s warm up before he begins the 2012 ATP World Tour season. Djokovic does not plan on playing any of the ATP 250 tournaments prior to the Australian Open. Australia’s Grand Slam is the first of 10 title defenses for Djokovic’s in 2012.

After defeating Roger Federer in the 44 minute match on Friday, Djokovic stated, “It is the perfect start to the season – I played great. It’s something that makes me very happy.” Djokovic won the match by breaking Federer twice during the first set, and dominating nine straight games. Djokovic eased the pain of Federer fans after Federer’s defeat, stating, “He has won more than 15 matches at the end of 2011 so I’m sure he won’t feel down after this loss here. His main goal here is to get a couple of matches under his belt, as it is for all of us.”

Djokovic is only testing the waters in Abu Dhabi, not yet ready to play at 100 percent. Nadal is in a similar position with his sore shoulder still slowing him down. David Ferrer defeated Nadal 6-3, 6-2 in their semifinal match on Friday. Following the match Nadal stated, “I knew before coming here that I was not ready to win a match against David Ferrer, not to win a match against Djokovic or Federer.” Nadal has not changed his plans on playing the 2102 season opening at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open before he takes a several week break during February.

Djokovic who held a 70-6 win loss record in 2011 will take a mini-break before the Australian Open. This decision is undoubtedly linked with his newfound maturity that gave him success in 2011. Djokovic is positive the success from his newfound maturity will carry on into 2012, claiming, “It’s the same game I’ve had the last couple of years; it’s my mental approach on the court that’s changed.” With his more mature mental approach Djokovic has some big goals ahead of him as big events are coming in 2012 and beyond. Regarding them Djokovic stated, “I’m only 24, and I want to have many more successful years, win as many major titles as possible. The Olympics are coming up. I want a medal.” With the first ATP tournament of 2012 two days away the New Year excitement builds for both fans and players.

Topics: Novak Djokovic