Top dog Djokovic secures final berth

 

Originally published on: 01/07/11 16:45

Novak Djokovic defeated Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in a thrilling four sets to seize the world No.1 ranking and reach his first Wimbledon final.

Three times a semi-finalist at the All England Club, Djokovic negotiated the flamboyant Frenchman 7-6(4) 6-2 6-7 6-3 to guarantee his presence at the biggest date in tennis on Sunday.

“It’s difficult to put into words,” said Djokovic after kissing the turf in the immediate aftermath of his victory. “This is one of the best feelings I’ve ever had on a tennis court. My dreams are coming true.”

Watched by his nearest and dearest as well as a host of former champions, including suavely-dressed 2001 champ Goran Ivanisevic, Djokovic added: “It’s great to have the closest people in my life watching from the stands. It is an individual sport but without the support of your close ones it’s not possible.”

By virtue of claiming the No.1 ranking, and winning the Davis Cup with Serbia in November last year, the 24-year-old has already achieved two of the big three goals in tennis and has given himself the chance to bag his ultimate dream on Sunday.

“I’ve been working all my life for this,” he said. “I’ve been dreaming about playing the finals at Wimbledon since I started playing tennis when I was four.”

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