Rome Masters: Djokovic outclasses Bedene in straight-sets win
Novak Djokovic outclassed Aljaz Bedene at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, progressing to the third round with a 7-6 (7-2) 6-2 victory.
The world number two, a four-time champion in Rome, maintained his 100 per cent record against Bedene with a third straight-sets win against the 27-year-old.
After a tight, competitive start, Djokovic’s quality proved too much for the Slovenian-born qualifier and he moved into the next round in comfortable fashion.
The Serbian served first and was unable to hold but, despite a stumble causing him to change racket in game two, he hit straight back to take the early pressure off.
Djokovic had to stave off a break point in game seven and proved ruthless in the tie-break, charging into a 5-0 lead before Bedene found the net with a forehand to give his opponent the opening set.
What a spectacular match on Centrale Stadium!Look at the score! #Djokovic and #Bedene are on fire! #ibi17 pic.twitter.com/K0AXfjO0lW
— Internazionali Bnl (@InteBNLdItalia) May 16, 2017
The 13-time major winner did not suffer a wobble at the start of the second and went 4-1 up when Bedene failed with a drop-shot attempt after fighting off three break points.
Djokovic completed what ended up being a routine victory, though he needed four match points in order to wrap it up.
