Novak Djokovic became just the second player in French Open history to defeat nine-time winner Rafael Nadal after overpowering the Spaniard, 7-5, 6-3 and 6-1 in the quarterfinals at Roland Garros.
With the victory, Djokovic is just two victories away from becoming the eighth player to complete a rare grand slam. All that, however, is easier said than done since he will have to deal first with Andy Murray in the semifinal round. Murray advanced by defeating another big name on the clay, David Federer (7-6 (4), 6-2, 5-7, 6-1).
For his part, Nadal took his second loss with perspective. The only other loss the Spaniard had was in 2009 when he lost to Robin Soderling of Sweden.
Not to take away anything from the world’s no. 1, Nadal did have his share of injuries heading into the French Open. Prior to their meeting, Nadal held a 6-0 record against Djokovic and it took ample preparations which apparently showed when the two faced off on the clay court.
“When you lose in the way I lost today, all you can do is accept it,” Nadal said. “He played better than I did. And when that is the case, you have to first accept it; second, congratulate the opponent; and third, analyze the reasons behind the defeat and then work really hard. That’s what I think I’ll have to do now,” he said after the match via the New York Times.
Nadal knows for a fact that his game was not in sync. And playing that way against Djokovic practically points to an imminent loss as the 29 year old looks back at the lopsided loss. Regardless, Nadal remains upbeat and hopes to return next year as he puts this loss behind him.
As far as Nadal’s play, Djokovic knew for a fact that the Spaniard was not comfortable. It showed in his serves and errors which Djokovic said are quite uncharacteristic of Nadal.
However, the job is not yet done for Djokovic after the euphoric win. He needs to focus once more and prepare for another dangerous opponent in Murray. He knows for a fact that Murray has shown vast improvement which could make his next step to the French Open crown a pretty tough one to get over.
Djokovic and Murray face off this coming Friday, their 27th face-off, in the French Open semifinals at Roland Garros.