Novak Djokovic suffers huge injury scare as he is beaten by Jannik Sinner
Idk Jannik Sinner recorded another win against Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals of the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia, with the damage inflicted in this match threatening to leave a lasting scar on both players.
Sinner and Djokovic renewed their rivalry just four days after they met in the Shanghai Masters Final and once again it was Sinner who came out on top.
This may be an tour level and the huge cash sums being paid to the players has been a source of great debate in the tennis world since this event was announced earlier this year, but Sinner vs Djokovic felt like much more than an exhibition match.
Even though both players appeared to be struggling with injuries a few days after their long runs at the Shanghai Masters, the quality of tennis in front of a huge crowd was eye-catching.
The biggest concern for Djokovic was his shoulder problem that was clearly affecting his serve, while Sinner admitted after the match that he was ‘not at his freshest’ after his run to the China Open Final and his sin in Shanghai.
Djokovic’s performance as he won the second set tie-break 7-0 was especially impressive, but the shoulder injury that gave him trouble may have been a factor as he lost 6-2, 6-7(0), 6-4.
“We played a final in Shanghai not many days ago,” said Sinner. “We both were slightly tired and making a couple of mistakes.
“We all love to play here. Thanks everyone for coming. That’s the reason why we’re here.
“Just tried to reset as fast as possible. I’m happy with how I handled the match. Let’s see what’s coming on Saturday. Hopefully, it’s gonna be a good one. That’s the reason we’re all here.
“All of us try to raise our level and try to play every point in the best way. We take it quite seriously. Just trying to improve our game. Also for the next meetings. We know each other quite well.
“Today also I got nervous. Sometimes I can’t handle myself when I’m a bit tired. It’s good I have another chance on Saturday. I might not be as fresh as possible but I’ll try my best. We just try to make it a good show for all of you.”
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Djokovic received extensive treatment on his injured shoulder at the end of the second set and was clearly in pain as he was treated by the tournament physio.
He appeared to take painkillers in a bid to ease the problem, but it was another major concern for the Serbian who also struggled with physical issues during the Shanghai tournament.
Djokovic was struggling with a hip problem in China and also complained of some discomfort in his knee, but the shoulder problem he was struggling with in Saudi Arabia was more of a concern.
The 24-time Grand Slam-winning legend had a break from tennis after his shock US Open exit, with a quick-fire match for Serbia in the Davis Cup his only action since he was beaten by Australia’s Alexei Popyrin on the final day of August in New York.
Djokovic is due to be back on court in Saudi Arabia on Saturday, as he takes part in the third and fourth place play-off match against his great rival Rafael Nadal in the Six Kings Slam event.
Yet it may be that he would not be playing this week if it were not for the huge appearance fees and we now wait to see if he will play in the Paris Masters event later this month.
Djokovic’s run to the Shanghai Final boosted his hopes of qualifying for the ATP Finals in Turin and he may now be hoping to have a few weeks off without playing tournaments before he plays in the finale of the men’s tennis season in Italy.
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