Novak Djokovic opened his first Geneva campaign with a late-match surge beating Yannick Hanfmann 6-3, 6-3.
Djokovic, who was celebrating his 37th birthday Wednesday, was actually down 3-0 in the second with a point to go down 4-0. But Djokovic rebounded winning the last six games to claim his 1,100th career victory.
“The key was the birthday,” Djokovic joked. “The birthday probably wouldn’t be the same if I didn’t win the match, but it’s nice to be here for the first time at this tournament, with my family coming here to support as well. I grew up with my aunt, uncle and two cousins for most of my life. We don’t get the chance to see each other that much lately, so it’s really nice. I’m getting some really quality time on the court, but also off the court.”
Afterward, the tournament gave Djokovic an on-court birthday part. It was the first time the Serb has played a tour match on his birthday!
“That really touched me,” Djokovic said to the crowd. “I’m very happy to win on this special day.”
Tomorrow, he’ll await the winner of Denis Shapovalov and Tallon Griekspoor in the quarterfinals.
Casper Ruud rallied from a set down past Sebastian Ofner 4-6, 6-2, 6-2 while Taylor Fritz fell in an all-American battle to Alex Michelson 6-4, 4-6, 7-5.
Most Match Wins – Open Era (men)
Jimmy Connors 1,274
Roger Federer 1,251
Novak Djokovic 1,100
