A first set at 6-3, then a tie-break won 7-2. Novak Djokovic beat Nuno Borges, world No. 49, and is still unbeaten in Beijing: 30 matches, 30 wins, six titles in six appearances.
In his on-court interview and again at the press conference, the Serbian talked about the crowd. “The incredible passion, loyalty and commitment they show towards me […] are just extraordinary, honestly,” he said, before describing the fans who wait outside the hotel for an autograph or a photo.
Céline, ranked C30.4 (a club-level ranking) and a regular in interclubs, Belgium’s weekend team league, watched the match. She mostly remembers the second set.
The 7-2 tie-break, I know it. I usually lose it, but I know it. What changes everything is the support. He has people waiting for hours outside the hotel. Me, on Sunday, I had my doubles partner waiting outside the clubhouse bar, and he wasn’t waiting for me, he was waiting for his cone of chips. The intentions were there, the patterns too. All that was missing was the loyalty of the crowd, and maybe slightly fresher strings. People underestimate the psychological impact of a photo requested at the exit. Nobody has ever asked me for one, and look where I am. Two practice sessions away, mind you.
Djokovic said he tries to repay the fans’ respect and gratitude “with fine performances on the court”. Céline plans to apply the principle at her next match, provided someone turns up.
It’s true, we checked: We Love Tennis.
