Djokovic Two Wins Away from 100th Career Title as He Celebrates 38th Birthday

By Gyang Dakwo

Novak Djokovic celebrated his 38th birthday in winning fashion on Thursday, defeating Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi 6-4, 6-4 to advance to the semi-finals of the Geneva Open and move closer to a milestone 100th career title.

The world No. 1, who has 24 Grand Slam titles to his name, avenged a recent loss to Arnaldi at the Madrid Open, overcoming a slow start in the second set to claim victory in one hour and 40 minutes. Djokovic trailed 1-4 before reeling off five straight games to close out the match.

“It’s great to be in the semi-finals again. Hopefully this year I can go at least a step further, that’s the goal,” Djokovic said, referencing his quarter-final exit at the same tournament last year.

In a match tighter than the scoreline suggested, Djokovic admitted that an outburst on court helped him regain composure and momentum. “After the racquet breaking, I kind of found my optimal state and balance mentally and emotionally to be able to play my best tennis when it was most needed,” he explained.

The Serbian star will next face Britain’s Cameron Norrie, who came from behind to beat Australian Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (8-6), 6-4.

Djokovic is aiming to become just the third man in history to reach 100 ATP titles, joining the elite company of Jimmy Connors (109) and Roger Federer (103).

Following the win, Djokovic was presented with a birthday cake on court, capping off a day of celebration with another step toward tennis history.