Novak Djokovic loses Serbia Open final to Andrey Rublev
- Planet Sport writer
- 24 April 2022
World number one Novak Djokovic ran out of steam in the last set of the Serbia Open final as he crashed to a 6-2 6-7 (4) 6-0 defeat to Russia's Andrey Rublev in front of his home fans in Belgrade.
The defeat leaves Djokovic without an ATP Tour title this season, while Rublev claimed his third tour-level crown of the season - equalling the tally of Rafael Nadal - following previous victories in Marseille and Dubai in February.
It was Rublev's first win over a world number one and he broke Djokovic's serve twice in the opening set and saved five set points in the second to force a tie-break, but Djokovic stormed into a 5-2 lead and let out a roar of delight as he levelled the contest.
In the deciding set Rublev broke his opponent's serve three times to win it without losing a game.
Wonderful sportsmanship from @DjokerNole ❤️@AndreyRublev97 #SerbiaOpen pic.twitter.com/wXBsW8YGpa
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) April 24, 2022
"It is big to play against you and share the court for the second time," Rublev said to Djokovic during the trophy ceremony.
"I hope we have more battles. I feel so great here, it is a very nice city. It feels really special. I want to say a big thanks to all the spectators for supporting all the players all week. To see full crowds again is special for all of us."
