Playing 100 matches at a single Major requires huge showings at that event over 15 years! Only four players in the Open Era have done it, starting with Jimmy Connors and going through, you guessed it, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.
The American did it at the US Open and Wimbledon, and Federer responded with more than 100 matches at three different Majors. Rafael Nadal equaled the feat in his reign in Paris, becoming the first player with 100 appearances at Roland Garros.
Novak Djokovic has more titles at three other Majors compared to Roland Garros, but his 100th meeting at a single Major came in Paris instead of Melbourne, London or New York. Djokovic made his Roland Garros debut in 2005, just after his 18th birthday.
The Serb has been one of the most consistent players in Paris alongside Rafael Nadal, reaching 16 quarter-finals in 18 appearances and fighting in his 100th match in the third round last week. Novak played at a high level in a landmark clash in Paris, defeating Diego Schwartzman 6-1 6-3 6-3 in two hours and 15 minutes to earn a place in the quarter-finals.
Djokovic defended seven of the eight break points to keep the pressure on the other side. He converted more than half of the return points and converted them on six breaks from 11 chances to control the scoreboard and sail over the finish line.
Djokovic will defend his Wimbledon title
Novak Djokovic was subjected to a partisan crowd during his quarterfinal clash with Rafael Nadal at the French Open on Tuesday. “No other player had to face great difficulties.
It’s not fair, hey, I have to say,” McEnroe said. “This guy has found a way out of difficult situations more than any other player in the history of tennis. And if you think he doesn’t mind, you’re crazy.
He’s so mentally strong that he can handle it and somehow direct his anger and frustration at what he sees as a lack of respect, and I feel that too,” he added. The seven-time Major champion also called the Serb a “remarkable player and person.”
“He does it better than anyone I’ve ever seen,” McEnroe said. “I didn’t do it as well. I felt like it affected me more than it helped me. I think there were times where it fuelled me, but he has done it consistently.
He’s a remarkable player and person”. Missing the US Open wouldn’t be the first case of Djokovic missing a tournament in the US.
Source: Tennis World USA