It might not have been an exciting match between Novak Djokovic and Tallon Griekspoor, but it had the script the packed house was eagerly waiting for with the Serb racing to a straight-set win in the Dubai Tennis Championships on Wednesday.
After labouring to a three-set win over qualifier Tomas Machac on Tuesday, the world No 1 was at ease, racing to a comfortable lead in the first set before winning it comfortably. The second went on similar lines with Djokovic winning 6-2, 6-3.
“Great evening for me tonight. Right from the beginning, I played better quality tennis than last night. Last three, four games were not best, but pleased with the performance. I am very close to my best,” said the world No 1, who entered his 13th quarterfinals in Dubai.
“Tallon is one of the most-improved players on tour, the new generation is coming, but I am not afraid.”
Griekspoor, one of the fastest-improving talent on the ATP Tour, ranked 39, raised his game, but still could not keep the Serbian quiet, as Djokovic came up with stunning winners.
A semblance of the Dutch’s talent started coming out during the long game when it went to deuce on several occasions, but unforced errors on his strong forehand did not help as Djokovic moved to a 5-0 lead.
Buoyed by his first success in the second set, Griekspoor’s game improved a few notches higher and aided by a couple of double faults, the Dutch broke Djokovic’s serve for the first time, albeit the success coming far too late before the world No 1 won on his second match point.
