Novak Djokovic faces his most difficult challenge thus far at the French Open as he squares off against the competitive Spaniard Roberto Bautista-Agut. Join The Roar for live scores from 9.00pm AEST.
Despite winning the four previous matches between the pair, Djokovic’s clash against Bautista-Agut should present the Serb with his toughest test at Roland Garros this week.
Bautista-Agut is one of the more stubborn opponents on the ATP tour and possesses an attitude similar to that of compatriot David Ferrer. He is a great returner of serve and always hustles well regardless of the scoreboard.
The problem for the Spaniard tonight though surrounds the fact he is facing the greatest competitor on the ATP tour. As hard as Bautista-Agut competes on court, Djokovic continues to set a competitive standard that has been unrivalled for the past few years.
On that fact alone, Djokovic once again starts as warm favourite against a player who is fast becoming a regular fixture in the second week of grand slam tournaments.
The pair have already met this season at the Madrid Masters, where Djokovic coasted to a 6-2, 6-1 victory. Such a scoreline shows last year’s French Open finalist usually has all the answers against players of Bautista-Agut’s calibre.
Prediction
Djokovic will still have to show up with his best tennis if he hopes to dismantle the Spaniard relatively simply. Anything less than a complete performance and Bautista-Agut could turn this contest into a real fight given his strong tenacity to compete against the very best.
With another French Open final getting closer however, Djokovic should produce the quality required to secure a good win.
Djokovic in four sets