Novak Djokovic Wins 2020 Western & Southern Open

Today was the conclusion of the Western and Southern Open. Milos Raonic faced off against #1 Novak Djokovic, with Djokovic coming out on top at the end, 1-6, 6-3, 6-4. Let’s breakdown the match and the implications it has going forward.

This was by no means a straightforward match. Momentum shifted to both sides throughout the match, with no one player being dominant throughout. The match was sloppy but did give us some brilliant moments throughout.

In the first set, Raonic dominated Djokovic. The World #1’s first serve percentage was below 50%, and he served 4 double faults and no aces. He couldn’t get anything going on his serve, unlike Raonic, who dominated on his serve, winning over 80% of his first-serve points. Raonic ended up winning the set 6-1.

The beginning of the second set was more closely contested. At 3-2 with Raonic serving, Djokovic broke him to go up 4-2, and from there, Djokovic was able to close out the set at 6-3. It was not a great set for Djokovic, as he reached only 50% on his first serve percentage, but he did hit one ace and no double faults, and he converted on his one and only break point opportunity.

During the third set, Djokovic began to struggle again. Raonic broke him for the third time in the match to go up 2-0, as Djokovic put in another double fault. His first-serve percentage fell to 47%, and Raonic seemed like he was in a position to take it all. However, Djokovic then broke back the very next game. After that, the momentum shifted. During the 5th game of the 3rd set, Djokovic broke Raonic again to go up 1 break at 3-2. Djokovic then ran away with it, winning it 6-4

This only affirms the favorites for the US Open further. Going into the final, Djokovic was considered to the favorite to win. This win only further proves why he is the favorite: He is simply too dominant right now. With this win, Djokovic now has 35 Masters 1000 titles, tying Nadal for most all-time. Djokovic’s undefeated season is only strengthening his case as the greatest men’s tennis player ever.

With the current trajectory, he is on, tennis fans should begin to realize that it is not unrealistic for Djokovic to be the GOAT. This win continues to show the fact that most fans seem to ignore: He has what it takes. Now it is time to put some respect on his name.