Arnaldi, Djokovic's Conqueror in Madrid: "I Know His Game Well and It Helped Me"

Matteo Arnaldi secured one of the biggest wins of his career this Saturday in Madrid by defeating Novak Djokovic.

In the press conference, the Italian was overjoyed, especially after suffering two first-round exits in Monte-Carlo and Barcelona:

"At the start, I was just happy to play against him. He’s always been my idol, so I was thrilled to face him on the court. But once you’re out there, you stop thinking about that. I was nervous. When I broke him, I was sure he’d break back right away. But then I managed to play without pressure and just enjoy the moment.

I’ve watched so many of his matches, and I know his game well. That helped me. In some rallies, I knew what he was going to do. On his side, I don’t think he’d ever seen me play before. He’s not at his best right now, but he’s still playing well.

I’m really happy with this win. I don’t know if it was the best match of my career, but he’s definitely the most special player I’ve ever faced."