Novak Djokovic had three consecutive match points in a match that would have sent Serbia into the Davis Cup Finals final, so he took responsibility for the country's failure to reach its goal.
Novak Djokovic dreamed of Davis Cup glory with Serbia, but the dream ended at the hands of an Italian Maestro called Jannik Sinner. While Djokovic got the last laugh in Turin last week, Sinner certainly repaid the favor in Malaga this week.
He bested the Serbian on Saturday to make it 1-1 between their countries. It was a strange match, one where Djokovic had three consecutive match points but failed to close it out.
That's only the fourth time he lost a match where he had match points. Read that again and understand how significant what Sinner did really is. He didn't only beat him, he crushed him by winning the doubles as well as ending the dream.
After the match, Djokovic took full blame for the defeat, especially because he had three match points not just to win his match, but also the tie against Italy, after Miomir Kecmanovic won his opening match.
Well, congratulations to Italy for qualifying for finals. They deserved it. They played really well, particularly Jannik, in singles against me and then doubles, as well. He barely missed the ball the entire doubles, as well. He barely missed the ball the entire match. So, you know, you can only say congrats and hats down for the performance like that.
For me personally it's a huge disappointment, because I take the responsibility, obviously having three match points, being so close to win it. Yeah, it's unfortunate really. This is sport. When you lose for your country, you know, the bitter feeling is even greater.
Success under the Serbian banner has eluded Djokovic. He won the Davis Cup many years ago but could have done more, which he talks about often. He also never won a gold for Serbia, but the Olympics will be played again next year, so he'll have a chance.
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