Novak Djokovic in awkward exchange as Holger Rune latest ATP Finals star booed
Novak Djokovic says he will 'keep going' after US Open win
Novak Djokovic scraped through to the semi-finals of the ATP Finals on Thursday after finishing his group with a 2-1 record. The Serb was defeated by Jannik Sinner but had the same man to thank, as the Italian’s victory over Holger Rune ensured that the 24-time grand slam champion would reach the final four for the 12th time in Turin.
Just hours before Djokovic discovered his fate, he admitted that he had turned his attention towards the Davis Cup having not known whether he would advance to the semi-finals.
“If he (Sinner) wins, I’ll qualify. If he doesn’t, I’ll still finish the season with a win and look to Davis Cup,” Djokovic said after his three-set victory over Hubert Hurkacz.
Today’s action will see Carlos Alcaraz take on Daniil Medvedev while Andrey Rublev faces Alexander Zverev in another blockbuster day in Italy.
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Djokovic ‘not favourite’ to win tournament
Novak Djokovic has been told that he is not the favourite to win the ATP Finals this year.
The Serb edged his way into the semi-finals but former French Open champion Francesca Schiavone insists that other contenders have a better chance at victory.
“In my opinion Djokovic is not the favorite to win the ATP Finals, but he has the ability to recruit not only strength but also concentration,” she said.
“Furthermore, the analysis he will make of the match played yesterday will allow him to go to the semi-final with a different spirit and another concentration, if he manages to win the match that awaits him tomorrow.
“He needs to have very high concentration and make the difference with his weapons: explosiveness at the right moment, being able to see the opposite half of the court much bigger than the current Alcaraz or Zverev.”
Rune booed by fans
Holger Rune became the latest star at the ATP Finals to feel the wrath of the crowd as he was booed during his defeat to Jannik Sinner.
He attempted to challenge his own serve but after being informed by the umpire that he did not request the challenge in time, he was turned down.
He had another request dismissed before boos rang around the court, forcing the umpire to step in and tell the supporters to stop jeering.
Djokovic awkward interview
Shortly after Novak Djokovic’s three-set win over Hubert Hurkacz, he was involved in an awkward interview courtside.
He firstly asked the reporter to wait as there was music playing over the tannoy, before seemingly taking umbrage with a question.
When asked why he appeared upset during the second set, Djokovic replied: “Why? Why was I upset? I lost the set, so it’s normal.”
He then abruptly ended the interview by stating that he took part in a “good win”.
Good morning
Hello and welcome to Express Sport’s live coverage of the ATP Finals ahead of a blockbuster day.
To ensure you’re all up to date you can take a look at our recap of yesterday’s action.
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