Verdaso extends career by partnering with Djokovic for doubles win in Doha
Playing in his last tournament, Fernando Verdasco won a doubles match with Novak Djokovic on Monday in Doha.
Fernando Verdasco defeat Paire- UTS 2 – July 26
Fernando Verdasco is retiring from tennis this week at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open, with his final appearance on the ATP Tour coming in doubles with Novak Djokovic.
The dynamic duo opened in style by beating Alexander Bublik and Karen Khachanov 6-1, 6-1 on Monday afternoon. Djokovic and Verdasco did not get broken a single time while dominating the match in just 48 minutes.
Verdasco’s tried and true forehand that was on display throughout his career once again flashed its mettle in Doha. Djokovic eventually punctuated the clean performance with a swinging forehand volley winner on match point.
“I have to say, maybe after this match I shouldn’t play the second round,” Verdasco joked during an on-court interview. “I should just go and retire by winning 6-1, 6-1. It’s the best feeling ever, thank you so much for coming today, and see you on Wednesday.”
The 41-year-old Spaniard last played singles in September of 2023 and he previously had not played doubles since July of that year.
Meanwhile, Djokovic said following the doubles victory that his hamstring injury stemming from the Australian Open is of no concern at this point. The 37-year-old Serb retired from his semifinal match at Melbourne Park against Alexander Zverev. Djokovic will kick off his singles campaign at this ATP 500 event against Matteo Berrettini on Tuesday night.
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