Novak takes his boom and Bust game to the next level

NOVAK DJOKOVIC is acting a little strangely again, isn’t he? No sooner had his quarter-final with Pablo Carreno Busta started then he was self-flagellating. There is no other way of putting this. He was beating seven bells out of himself like it was some medieval ritual involving the purge of evil spirits. Nowadays the players have access to all manner of devices and services on court. Thank goodness that does not include a cat o’ nine tails or a ducking stool.

Novak was a very cross boy and he was letting the world know of his frustration. Carreno Busta is one of these nightmarish hurdles that would drive Djokovic to the cliff edge. Physically he is a bull, technically he is almost perfect and his temperament is sound.

Like fellow Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut, Pablo will not lose unless you beat him. He is the litmus test for his opponent’s desire and determination to win. If you beat Carreno Busta, you can play the game and my goodness Djokovic is fantastic.

With Nole fanboys and girls now upset at me for suggesting anything negative about their idol let me say this: Djokovic produced some of the most beautiful tennis I have ever seen in winning sets three and four.

Using every angle, every spin, mixing his heights over the net and changes of pace and depth, he demonstrated what a sporting master he is. Both players acknowledged each other’s prowess at times, which was heartening to see, although the Spaniard seemed a little cross after the match at some of the theatrics from the first set, where Djokovic made it plain for all to see he was struggling with issues in his neck and left arm. Nevertheless, the standard Djokovic (right) produces at times is the highest I have had the privilege to witness. It is a joy to watch any endeavour taken to these heights.

Remember he is the only y player in this golden generation to have held all l four major championships simultaneously and has not lost a completed match this year. His rivalry with Rafa Nadal is 55 matches old and I’d lovee to see that as Sunday’s final. I can’t pick a winner. And isn’t’t thattht th the essence of why we watch?