Nole is thru to the fourth spherical on the French Open, following an exhilarating five-set win on Court docket Philippe-Chatrier.
World no.1 Novak Djokovic withstood the problem of no.30 seed Lorenzo Musetti to prevail 7-5, 6-7, 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 and attain the final 16 in 4 hours and 29 minutes.
The third-round match received underneath means at 22:37 native time on rain-affected Saturday at Roland Garros. It’s the newest end in Roland Garros historical past.
Each gamers produced a formidable show and wonderful stage of energy tennis.
Musetti began the match aggressively and secured a break within the third sport. Novak broke again instantly, leveling the rating at 2-2. There have been no extra break level alternatives till the twelfth sport, when Novak transformed the primary of two break/set level probabilities for a one-set lead.
The 24-time Grand Slam titlist was main 4-2 within the second set, however Musetti managed to battle again. Djokovic had a 6-5 lead within the tie-break and a serve, however the subsequent three factors went to the Italian, who took the second set to stage the competition.
Nole’s stage dropped within the third set, and his motivated rival used it to interrupt serve twice and take the benefit.
The Serbian star confirmed unbelievable psychological energy within the fourth set. He raised his stage of play, and with two breaks, raced to a 5-2 lead. Musetti received one break again, however Novak responded with one other one for 6-3, forcing the decisive set.
Earlier than coming into the ultimate set, the 2 have been tied 124-124 in complete factors received.
Novak saved the very best for final. It was an excellent end from the highest seed and defending champion. Absolute domination and 6-0 for the good triumph in Paris.
Match statistics: aces (5-2), double faults (1-3), winners (43-20), unforced errors (24-23), complete factors received (92-59).
Novak will face both Tommy Paul (USA, 14) or Francisco Cerundolo (ARG, 23) for a spot within the quarter-final.
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Photograph: Profimedia