“Novak gave a flash interview after defeating Yannick Sinner in the semi-finals of the Aus Open”, — write: sport.ua
– Another unforgettable performance on this court, which means so much to you. We just saw you sitting, looking back, looking up at the sky, reflecting on the moment. How do you feel now?
– To be honest, it’s hard for me to find words right now. My God. I don’t even know where to start – this feeling is surreal. The match lasted four hours, almost two in the morning, and it reminded me of 2012 when I played Rafa in the final – then the match lasted almost six hours. But the level of intensity and quality of tennis today was incredibly high and I knew that was the only way to give myself a chance to beat him today. He won my last five matches. He had my phone number so I had to change it today. All kidding aside, I told him at the net thank you for giving me at least one win in the last couple of years. I have great respect for him. An incredible player. He pushes you to the limit – that’s what he did to me today. He certainly deserves a round of applause for his performance. Some legends stayed up until two o’clock in the morning. Margaret Court, thank you so much for being here today. I can’t thank everyone enough for the support. You were just incredible today. Honestly, incredible. I love our passionate relationship – it’s different every year. And tonight was, if not the best, one of the best atmosphere and support I’ve ever experienced in Australia. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
– Love for you is still here, and we are happy to see you on the court every time. There’s no guarantee you’ll be back every year, but you’re here anyway. Last year at the US Open, you told the press, “I think these guys are playing at a different level.” These are your words. You also said, “It’s going to be very difficult for me in three-set matches.” Can you admit you were wrong in New York?
– No, I was not wrong. I said it would be very difficult, but not impossible. And here we are. You are right, you remembered everything exactly. I said they were playing at a different level and I just needed to find that level.
– You found him. And now you will again have to play with one of the young players. Did you manage to watch Carlos and Sasha’s match in the afternoon while you were preparing for yours?
– Yes, I watched. I really wanted to get on the court. It was an incredible match. We tried to match this level of quality and intensity. Big credit to both players for such a fight. I think the audience today definitely got their money’s worth for the ticket. That’s for sure. I want 10% of the tickets sold today. Craig, 10%. No negotiation. I saw Carlos after the match and he said to me: “I’m sorry for delaying the start of your match”, and I said: “I’m old, I need to go to bed earlier”. So looking forward to meeting him in a few days.
– On Sunday evening, as it often happens with you, history is at stake again. You will be playing for your 11th Australian Open title and 25th Grand Slam title. What would a win on Sunday mean to you?
– To be honest, the feeling of victory is already present today. But I know that I have to come back in a couple of days – or rather, even less – and fight with the first racket of the world. I just hope I have enough fuel to keep up with him. This is my wish. And then let God decide the winner.
