Novak Djokovic survives injury scare and ‘most humid conditions’ to steer Serbia into quarters

ATP Tour
Novak Djokovic celebrations

A shoulder problem and the “brutal” humid conditions couldn’t stop Novak Djokovic from steering Serbia past France and into the ATP Cup quarter-finals.

The 16-time Grand Slam winner beat Gael Monfils 6-3, 6-2 in his singles rubber and then teamed up with Dusan Lajovic in the doubles to defeat Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-3, 6-7 (5-7), 10-3.

Djokovic required treatment on his tricep midway through the second set while conditions in Brisbane were also tough on the players.

“It was definitely one of the most humid conditions that I have ever had in my career. Tonight was brutal,” the world No 2, who seemed untroubled by the shoulder problem after the match, said.

“Obviously playing Gael, you know you are going to have a lot of exchanges, a lot of rallies. He is a great fighter and a great friend of mine. Tough luck.”

The win over France, together with their 3-0 drubbing of South Africa earlier in the tournament will see them qualify for the last eight as Group A winners.

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