Top
Novak Djokovic applauds crowd US Open 2019

Novak Djokovic says ‘playing my best tennis when I needed it the most’ secured record title in Rome


Novak Djokovic declared himself ‘super proud’ after he won a record 36th Masters title in Rome on Monday.

Djokovic went into the final against Diego Schwartzman level with Rafael Nadal for ATP1000 tournament wins, and he was worked hard by the Argentine.

However, despite being broken in his first two service games, Djokovic sailed to a 7-5, 6-3 win.

“It was a great week,” Djokovic said after the final. “A very challenging week.

“I don’t think I played my best tennis throughout the entire week, but I think I found my best tennis when I needed it the most in the decisive moments.

“That definitely makes me very satisfied and proud that I managed to find that fifth gear when it was most needed.

“Turning to Paris [for the rescheduled French Open], I could not ask for a better tournament here in Rome. Another big title and I am super pleased with it.”

Novak Djokovic will be the top seed at Roland Garros and will find out his first opponent when the draw is made on Thursday.


Michael Graham, Tennishead.net Editor, has been a professional sports journalist for his whole career and is especially passionate about tennis. He's been the Editor of Tennishead.net for over 5 years and loves watching live tennis by visiting as many tournaments as possible. Michael specialises in writing in-depth features about the ATP & WTA tours.