World number two and defending champion Novak Djokovic will face rival top-ranked Rafael Nadal in the title-match of the ATP World Tour Finals at The O2 in London on Monday, November 11 after the Serbian eliminated Swiss player Stanislas Wawrinka in the semifinals 6-3, 6-3 on Sunday.
Djokovic is faced with the daunting task ahead since he’ll be competing against Nadal for the 39th time with Nadal leading 22-16 in their head to head series. Djokovic is a two-time champion at this event (2008, 2012) while Nadal is seeking for his first.
“We both have had great seasons, especially him,” said Djokovic. “He finishes No. 1 in the world deservedly. Of course, whenever we play each other, it’s a huge challenge and we both want to win. This is the probably the most competitive tournament that we have after [the] Grand Slams in our sport, and we both want to crown this season in the best possible way and end it with a title.
“Of course, [there is] no clear favourite in the final tomorrow. It’s always expected that we [will] go the distance.”
His match against Wawrinka lasted 84 minutes and he continues his unbeaten streak to 21 matches. His last defeat was at the US Open final against Nadal.
“I had the feeling that I was playing good, hitting well the ball,” Wawrinka said about his loss. “But I think I didn’t have enough energy today. I think I was little bit late physically. Against him, that makes a big difference. I’m disappointed with myself because I had the feeling that could have done something better.”
Wawrinka became the third Swiss player to reach the semifinals at this season-ending event with compatriot Roger Federer doing this 11 times and Jakob Hlasek achieving this in 1988.
