Marcos went toe-to-toe with World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in Basel on Friday, unfortunately losing in three sets of exciting tennis. Despite an impressive and energetic performance, Marcos was unable to stop Djokovic triumphing 2-6 6-2 6-3.
Marcos stormed out of the blocks and got an early break in the first set. At 4-2 up he managed to force a break point, which he took with a sublime backhand down the line to rock the Serbian on to his heels. With a first service percentage at 68 per cent, Marcos held to take the first set 6-2.
Djokovic rallied during the break and began to play some of the tennis that has taken him to the No. 1 ranking. Marcos played valiantly, chasing down a lot of balls and hitting some excellent shots. However, Djokovic saw out the set in an experienced fashion to set up a decider.
Marcos increased his level of performance in the final set, matching Djokovic in every aspect of the game. One break point was all the Serb needed to go a crucial break up. Despite Marcos’ best efforts and superb attitude in fighting until the very end, he was unable to force a break for himself.
Despite the loss, Marcos proved today that he is good enough to trouble the very best players in the world, and can look forward positively to the upcoming 2012 season.
