Mixed bag for Novak Djokovic

World No. 1 beats Zverev in singles tie but loses doubles decider as Germany oust defending champs Serbia to reach semi-finals; Rafa-less Spain through

Novak Djokovic fought past Alexander Zverev but it wasn’t enough to stave off defeat for Serbia in the ATP Cup on Friday, with Germany making the semi-finals alongside a Spanish team missing injured Rafael Nadal. The World No. 1, who is ramping up preparations to defend his Australian Open crown, was tested in his singles rubber before outlasting Zverev 6-7, 6-2, 7-5. 

Gritty Germans
But the German got revenge in the deciding doubles, teaming with Jan-Lennard Struff to edge Djokovic and Nikola Cacic 7-6, 5-7, 10-7 and ensure they made a Last-4 clash against Daniil Medvedev’s Russia. 

Struff earlier beat Dusan Lajovic in the other singles tie. “It was so difficult to play against [Zverev] today. Missiles from the other side of the court, both first and second serve,” said Djokovic, who led his country to the inaugural title last year. “He was going for it, not too many double faults. You’ve got to give him credit for being courageous and trying his best.”

Nadal missing again
Meanwhile, Nadal was once again missing from the Spanish team as they lost 2-1 to Greece. He watched from the team box as Pablo Carreno Busta and Roberto Bautista Agut led the challenge against Michail Pervolarakis and Stefanos Tsitsipas. Carreno Busta, ranked 16th, had few problems in thrashing Pervolarakis 6-3, 6-4 to guarantee their spot in the playoff rounds against Italy. 

Australia were already eliminated from their group, while Greece needed to win 3-0 to advance. “With this victory, we are into the semi-finals, so it was very important to us,” Carreno Busta said. Bautista Agut couldn’t match the exploits, crashing 7-5, 7-5 to World No. 6 Tsitsipas. “I think I played very solid throughout and showed aggression,” said the Greek. “My forehand was on fire, my serve was working well for me.”

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!