Djokovic, Cilic clash in final
Novak Djokovic (AP Photo/Tim Ireland)
LONDON (AP) – After reaching his first ATP Tour final in almost a year, Novak Djokovic still appeared far from content.
The 12-time Grand Slam champion set up a meeting with Marin Cilic by defeating Jeremy Chardy 7-6 (5), 6-4 at Queen’s Club on Saturday.
Djokovic’s last final – and title – also came on a British grass court when he defeated Gael Monfils in Eastbourne last July.
“I’m just self-critical, I guess, at times,” Djokovic said. “I maybe don’t show the satisfaction or exhilaration when maybe it’s expected or vice versa, or other emotions.
“It’s just sometimes, you’re pumped and frustrated. Sometimes you just want to keep it to yourself. I’m just glad to keep this going, and I don’t want to celebrate too much. You know, even though I’m really happy I’m in the finals, I just want to keep building this momentum.”
The in-form Chardy had won 12 of his previous 13 matches but the Frenchman was still left without a win – or even a set – against Djokovic after their 11th career meeting.