Djokovic’s 20th consecutive Davis Cup singles win clinches victory for Serbia over Spain
Novak Djokovic answered the bell for Team Serbia, sending his team to the final eight at Davis Cup with a win over Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.
Novak Djokovic didn’t hesitate when called upon to help his Serbian brothers in their quest to win the nation’s second Davis Cup title – and first since 2010. On Friday he made his presence felt in Valencia as he locked up Team Serbia’s spot in November’s final eight with a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.
Djokovic cracked 10 aces and saved the only break point he faced as he won 33 of 41 first-serve points.
Djokovic – Leaving my family is never easy
Just five days after being crowned a 24-time US Open champion and four-time US Open champion, Djokovic made the sacrifice and decided against a well-deserved vacation in favour of helping his teammates make their way to the knockout round as they chase down a second Davis Cup crown.
“Leaving my family is never easy, but coming to another family – my Serbian squad – always gives me the greatest joy and beautiful sensations,” Djokovic said. “To be able to be playing for my country. At the beginning of the season I said that Grand Slams and playing for my country are the greatest priority – I really want to contribute as much as I can.”
Djokovic delighted the 6,000-strong crowd in Valencia, even if he ended hopes for the Spanish side. He signed endless interviews after the match, giving fans a chance to be up close and personal with a 24-time major champion.
“I’m on cloud nine with everything that has happened recently,” Djokovic told the crowd. “Playing for Serbia is something completely different – it’s a huge responsibility and pressure, but also a privilege and an honour.”
Serbia will meet Czechia on Saturday for Group C superiority at Davis Cup.
20 on the trot – and Serbia’s top gun
Djokovic increased his run of Davis Cup singles victories to 20 and improved to 39-7 lifetime in Davis Cup singles matches.
The 36-year-old also tied legend Nenad Zimonjic on the all-time Davis Cup win list for his country (singles and doubles combined) with 43.
The world No 1 has not lost a singles match at Davis Cup since 2011. 2023 is the 14th year in which Djokovic has participated in the competition, and he has 33 ties under his belt.