Bedene’s level dipped in the middle of the second set as Djokovic reeled off four games in a row, the British player hurling his racket to the clay in disgust. Djokovic had 42 unforced errors in the three set win, a number he can’t be pleased with, but he’s still finding ways to win rather easily. Djokovic doesn’t look like his ankle is bothering him at all.
Advertisement
Speaking at the French Open on Saturday, Djokovic added that people should not only be concerned about those who are going to Rio for the Olympics, but also the Brazilians themselves – “not talking about them too much”.
The fifth and final set was delayed while Carreno Busta received treatment to his left leg.
Bedene’s serve is an underrated weapon and after the second round he was third in the aces chart behind Ivo Karlovic and John Isner having served 23 against Carreno Busta alone.
Andy Murray at last took the straightforward route into the fourth round of the French Open – and he is hoping Aljaz Bedene can join him. Bedene has to be more consistent with his first serve to have any shot.
The world No 1 has not dropped a set since the start of the tournament and will be a daunting proposition for Bedene, who is now listed at No 66 in the rankings. Bedene is 3-8 against top-10 players throughout his career.
Bedene said: “I was really, really unfit when I started to play grand slams”.
Bedene’s defiance yielded results and saw the Brit put up a strong fight, but Djokovic’s class was clear in short, potent bursts, as he pushed into a 5-2 lead before breaking his opponent once more to claim the first set.
Bedene is a fighter and can drag matches out when he’s owning his service game.
Advertisement
Bedene began well but his best groundstrokes were all returned with interest and his serve met the world’s best returner.
