The Green Group Action Heats Up at Nitto ATP Finals
The Nitto ATP Finals are reaching their climax as the Green Group battles for the remaining spots in the semi-finals. With qualification still up for grabs, Thursday’s matches promise to be intense and decisive.
Novak Djokovic Looks to Bounce Back Against Hubert Hurkacz
Novak Djokovic, the defending champion, suffered a defeat to Jannik Sinner in a thrilling three-setter on Tuesday night. Despite the loss, Djokovic expressed pride in his fighting spirit and comeback efforts.
“It’s normal to lose matches like this, but I have to be content with the fight, the fighting spirit,” Djokovic said. “I managed to make a comeback from a set down, a break down in the third set, playing in really challenging and difficult conditions on the court today. I’m proud of the fight that I put in. It just wasn’t enough for the win.”
Now, Djokovic faces a crucial match against alternate Hubert Hurkacz. While not a “must win” situation, a victory would greatly improve Djokovic’s chances of advancing to the semi-finals. Hurkacz, playing as a replacement for Stefanos Tsitsipas, will be eager to make his mark against the World No. 1.
Hurkacz, who reached the quarter-finals in his last appearance at the Rolex Paris Masters, will be a formidable opponent for Djokovic. Known for his powerful serves, Hurkacz leads the ATP Tour with 1,031 aces this season. Both players will be seeking their first Lexus ATP Head2Head win against each other.
Jannik Sinner and Holger Rune Set to Clash in a Battle of Young Stars
After their respective battles against Djokovic, Jannik Sinner and Holger Rune will now face each other in what promises to be an exciting match. Sinner, who thrilled the Italian crowd with his victory over the World No. 1, has a chance to complete a perfect 3-0 group campaign.
Sinner attributed his success to his growing maturity and confidence in crucial moments. “I think I was really brave and intelligent in important moments, especially the third set,” he said.
Rune, on the other hand, has proven his fearlessness under pressure, as demonstrated by his victory against Djokovic in last year’s Rolex Paris Masters final. Although Rune has suffered recent defeats against Djokovic, he leveled the score at 1-1 this week when Tsitsipas retired early in their match.
Both players are aware of each other’s strengths and are prepared for a tough battle. Rune acknowledged Sinner’s all-around skills and expressed his determination to prepare for the match.
Dodig/Krajicek and Gonzalez/Roger-Vasselin Fight for Semi-Final Spot
In another crucial match, Ivan Dodig and Austin Krajicek will face Santiago Gonzalez and Edouard Roger-Vasselin to determine who will join Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos in the semi-finals. Granollers and Zeballos have already secured their spot after a flawless 3-0 round-robin campaign.
The noon matchup will be a high-stakes battle as both teams vie for the opportunity to advance. The winners will face the Argentinian duo of Maximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni in the semi-finals.
As the Nitto ATP Finals near their conclusion, the Green Group matches continue to provide thrilling tennis and intense competition. With qualification spots still up for grabs, the players are leaving everything on the court in their quest for victory.