PARIS — OK, I admit it, Howard, I feel a little David Ferrer.
He seemed defeated from the start on Friday against Rafael Nadaland something worse after winning all five games. Yes, Rafa is playing at an unprecedented level here at Roland Garros – which is saying something. I’m not entirely confident Novak Djokovic can prevent Nadal from winning his record seventh title in eight tries.
But we’re straying into unprecedented territory here and, frankly, I feel like anything is possible. That’s certainly how Djokovic feels. Did you see his heart beating after beating Roger Federer in two sets?
Thus, Djokovic won his 27th consecutive Grand Slam singles match. If that sounds like a lot, it is. He (deservedly) ties Federer for second place on the all-time list. Number 1 is a guy named Rod Laver. If Djokovic can put in another great performance, he will hold all four major trophies – something that has not happened since Laver won the calendar Grand Slam 43 years ago.
Here’s why I think it’s possible: Djokovic looked horrible in his fourth round match against Andreas Seppilosing the first two sets. Did he win this match, Howard? Djokovic looked tight in the quarters against Jo-Wilfried Tsongalosing two of the first three sets. What happened there, Mr. ESPN, the Magazine guy?
Yes, he found a way to win when all hope seemed lost. As a result, he is playing his first final here at Roland Garros. It would also complete Djokovic’s career Grand Slam, which is more motivation for a player deeply aware of the history of his sport.
It says here that he will find a way. Federer and Nadal were the two best players of his generation, but Djokovic can do something he never did. That’s probably all he’s been thinking about since winning the Australian Open in late January.
I know, I know. Rafa is 51-1 at Roland Garros and Djokovic has lost this tournament the previous seven times. Federer calls him a “big favorite”. But in this collision of historic milestones, Djokovic will become the champion.
In his mind, he has no choice.
