Novak Djokovic secured his spot in the final of the Athens Open after defeating Yannick Hanfmann 6-3, 6-4 in the semifinals on Friday. The Serbian player will face either Lorenzo Musetti or Sebastian Korda in the championship match.
The opening set remained on serve until the sixth game. Djokovic missed his first chance to break in game four but created three more break points in game six. On his third attempt, the 24-time Grand Slam champion converted the break and closed the set in 37 minutes.
Hanfmann responded strongly in the second set, securing a break to lead 3-1. However, Djokovic quickly turned the momentum by breaking Hanfmann twice and maintaining his own serve effectively.
The 38-year-old wrapped up the match with a love hold, as Hanfmann sent a weak backhand into the net on the final point.
"144th tour-level final @DjokerNole surges into the Athens final with another straight sets victory! #HellenicChampionship"
This marks Djokovic's 144th tour-level final, highlighting his continued excellence on the ATP Tour. He has not dropped a set in three matches in Athens, showing strong form ahead of the final.
The final will feature Djokovic against one of these rising players as he pursues further success in Greece.
Author’s summary: Novak Djokovic reached his 144th ATP final in Athens, overcoming Hanfmann in straight sets and maintaining flawless form through the tournament's later stages.