ATP Finals: Novak Djokovic stops Stefanos Tsitsipas

Novak Djokovic won the match with the score of 6-4 7(7)-6(4) against Stefanos Tsitsipas & advances to the next round in 1hr 37m at the Nitto ATP Finals 2022

He begins his quest for a record-equalling sixth Nitto ATP Finals title with a straight-sets victory over Tsitsipas.

The Serb defended the only break point he faced and stole the rival's serve once in the opener. Stefanos served well after that, but it was not enough to keep him safe and force a decider. The Greeks stayed in touch in the shortest range, up to four strokes.

Tsitsipas made a shaky start and lost serve in the encounter's first game for an early setback.

Novak created two break points and seized the second following the rival's loose forehand for an early advantage. The Serb held at love in game two to cement the lead and fired a service winner at 2-1 to remain in front.

Stefanos settled into a pleasing rhythm in his games after that early break, wrapping up the fifth game at love and remaining within one break deficit. The Serb secured the sixth game with a service winner, and the Greek followed that pace in the next one to stay in touch.

Playing well in his games, Novak closed the eighth game with an ace and forced the opponent to serve to stay in the set. Tsitsipas grabbed the ninth game at 15 to reduce the deficit and extend the battle, hoping for a chance on the return in the next one.

Instead, Novak brought the tenth game home at 15 after Stefanos' poor challenge for 6-4 in 37 minutes. Continuing where he left in the opener, Djokovic fended off a break point in the second set's fourth game and closed it for 2-2.

It was the last opportunity for the returners ahead of the tiebreak, a must-win for Tsitsipas. Novak hit a volley winner at the net in the second point for 1-1 and claimed the third point after the rival's wayward backhand.

Djokovic grabbed a mini-break in the fourth point for 3-1 and extended the lead in the next one after Tsitsipas' forehand error. Stefanos reduced the deficit to 5-2 with a forehand down-the-line winner and claimed the next point with a service winner.

Novak earned two match points with a forehand winner at 5-4 and sealed the deal with a service winner in the 11th point for a winning start and 200 points on his tally.