Novak Djokovic vs Matteo Berrettini - ATP Finals - Preview and Prediction

The biggest tournament of the year is set to kick-start with a blockbuster showdown. World number two, Novak Djokovic locks horns with number eight, Matteo Berrettini in the group stage of the ATP Finals tonight.

Key Insights

• Djokovic is a five-time ATP Finals champion
• Berrettini is making his debut in the ATP Finals
• Last year, Djokovic finished as the runner-up losing to Alexander Zverev in straight sets
• Djokovic and Berrettini are playing against each other for the first time
• Berrettini has jumped 44 spots in the ranking this year.
• Djokovic has won five titles this year
• Berrettini has clinched two titles in 2019

The 16-time grand slam champion has been unstoppable. His triumph in the Paris Masters signalled why he is one of the best in the game. Precise returns and holding the nerves in the crucial moments has made Novak the man to beat. The Serbian also did not drop a set in Paris. 

On the other hand, the Italian loves playing on hard-courts. Fast forehands and big-serves suit Berrettini's game. The eighth seed made consecutive semifinals in Shanghai Masters and the Vienna Open.

Though he lost to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the round of 32 of the Paris Masters, he will be looking to turn the tide in London.

"You have to start with real intensity and quality of tennis because it is the elite eight players of the world". There is no smoothing your way into the tournament, you have to be very sharp from the start, opined Djokovic.

"I never played him, it is gonna be a huge experience and moment for my career, but like I did in the previous years, I am looking forward to learn something, put a lot of effort and for sure I am stepping on the court thinking about beating him but let's see what's gonna happen", said Berrettini ahead of the important match.

Under the lights, Berrettini will have to play the match of his life to defeat Djokovic.

Prediction - Novak Djokovic to win in three sets

Cover Image and Side Image Credits - Getty Images