CNN
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Novak Djokovic’s Preparations for French Open There was another setback on Wednesday as the world No. 1 was beaten by Holger Rooney in the Italian Open quarter-finals.
The 20-year-old Rooney prevailed in wet conditions as rain continued to affect play in Rome, 6-2 4-6 6 to record a second straight victory over Djokovic after winning the Paris Masters final in November. Achieved by -2.
It will be the first time since 2004 that Djokovic or Rafael Nadal According to the ATP, the Italian will be in the final of the Open.
“It’s a really big win for me,” world No. 7 Rowe told The The ATP Tour. “Obviously I did it last year in Paris, but every match is a big challenge when I play against Novak. He’s one of the greatest players to ever play the game.
“I knew I had to do my best … and I was today. I’m very proud of myself and I enjoyed every moment out there. I’m definitely humbled. I have a lot to achieve. I think you should always be humble. I think I am, and I hope people see me that way.
“I’m a big fighter on the court and I leave everything when I play my matches. I’m very proud that I was able to win today. I had to fight hard and play my best tennis. Novak Big credit to him, I’m a big fan of him. He’s a huge inspiration and I wish him all the best.”
The defeat marks another disappointing clay court tournament for Djokovic, who has now failed to progress past the quarter-finals in his three appearances on the red surface ahead of the French Open starting on May 28.
The Serb, a six-time champion in Rome, also appeared to struggle physically during the match and needed a medical timeout to win the second set after a rain delay.
Djokovic was recently returning to the court after his absence. Madrid Open The 22-time Grand Slam champion still looked below his best due to an elbow injury.
However, credit must go to Rowe for a brilliant performance that will cement his place among the title contenders at Roland Garros.
Dean, appearing in his first Italian Open, will play either Casper Rodd or Francesco Cerundolo in the semi-finals as the 20-year-old seeks a second career Masters 1000 title.