Why Djokovic Hoped For 'Rain Interruptions & Light Malfunctions' In Tsitsipas vs Fritz Match
Novak Djokovic was a bit mischievous, hoping for rain in Melbourne as Stefanos Tsitsipas and Taylor Fritz played their match following the conclusion of his match at the 2024 Australian Open.
The Serbian finished his fourth-round match rather quick match against Adrian Mannarino swiftly and, after the match, spoke about the other match that was being played.
It was the battle between Taylor Fritz and Stefanos Tsitsipas, which the American won. Many expected Tsitsipas to pull through, but the American took the match to Tsitsipas and outplayed him in four sets to get it done.
While Djokovic was giving his post-match interview on the court, the result of that match was unknown as it was still going on, and he used the chance to joke a bit about that, hoping for a long match, breaks in the match, a rain delay, some tech malfunctioning, and similar things.
"Well we know Stefanos and I played the final here last year. He’s an been established top 5, top 10 player for many years now. Very experienced with playing on a big stage. He’s got the complete game. Obviously very focused. Great player, no doubt."
"On the other hand, you have Fritz. They’re battling it out right now. Let’s see. Hopefully they go to 5 sets, over 6 hours, with some rain interruptions, light malfunctions, and they continue tomorrow."
The comment was obviously tongue in cheek, but he would have certainly benefited from things unfolding that way. Ultimately, they have not, but still, the 24-time Grand Slam champion will be the favourite in his match against Taylor Fritz in the quarterfinals of the tournament.
If he wins that match, the semifinal opponent will be the winner of the match between Jannik Sinner and Andrey Rublev, which is another semifinal blockbuster in the stacked men's draw in Melbourne.
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