Djokovic Beats Federer and Lifts Fourth Title in Rome
World No. 1 Noval Djokovic didn’t have the best week on the ATP World Tour but he still managed to end his campaign at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia with a fourth trophy at the prestigious Masters 1000 event.
Djokovic, who was forced into several three-set matches throughout the week, defeated world No. 2 Roger Federer in straight sets to secure his title win just weeks ahead of the French Open. He won the match 6-4, 6-3 to close in on Federer’s lead in the head-to-head series.
“I was able to find my way through,” said Djokovic. “Roger put a lot of pressure on my service game at 4-4, but I managed to respond well, to gain those break points, move him around the court, and then I played a couple of great points that gave me the set. When you’re a set up, the momentum is shifting to your side and you start to feel better.”
Federer, who had not dropped a set all week heading into the final, admitted to playing below par in the final. It was the fourth time that Federer finished runner up in Rome and is yet to lift the tournament title in 15 attempts.
Article Continues Below Ad
“I know I can play better,” said Federer. “Novak was rock solid today, he played great throughout. He made very few unforced errors. I’m happy, feeling good and healthy.”