Image ©Marricio Paiz
This afternoon, Novak Djokovic tried to will his way to a tenth season title and maintain a perfect mark in finals. Unfortunately for the world number one, his body didn’t cooperate.
Broken for the second time in the second set, a mentally and physically battered Djokovic waved the white flag. Consequently, with a 6-4, 3-0 victory, Andy Murray collected his second Western and Southern Open trophy; his seventh Masters 1000 crown.
With a historic fifth Masters 1000 title this season, Djokovic was attempting for the third time to win back to back such trophies. Yet, his last two matches, Djokovic with a record of 57-1 showed signs of vulnerability.
In the quarterfinals, Djokovic dropped the opening set against Gael Monfils and had to climb back. Then in the semifinals, his opponent, Tomas Berdych served for the initial set before losing it and eventually retiring with a shoulder problem.
With Djokovic not at his best, Murray took advantage early on. By forcing his rival into errors, Murray secured the break in the opening game. With Djokovic’s forehand landing wide, Murray easily consolidated for 2-0.
Still Djokovic battled back. After fighting off a break point to hold serve in the third game, Djokovic had his first break point later in the set when Murray flubbed a backhand. Although Murray erased that one, Djokovic converted on the next to level the set at 3 all.
