“It’s really a big win for me,” said Rune after his win.
“Obviously I did it last year in Paris as well, but every match is a huge challenge for me when I play against Novak. He’s one of the greatest that’s ever played the game. I knew I had to be at my best and I said it yesterday, and I was today. I’m super proud of myself and I enjoyed every moment out there.”
This win extends his ATP Masters record to 17-4. This includes his run to his first ATP Masters 1000 title in Paris last year. He and Djokovic are now at a 2-1 head-to-head record with Rune leading.
“I stay humble of course. I have a lot to achieve,” said the Dane.
“I think you should always be humble. I think I am, I hope so and I hope people see me this way. I’m a huge fighter on the court and I leave everything when I play my matches. I’m super proud I was able to get the victory today. I had to fight hard and play my best tennis.”
“Huge credit to Novak, I’m a big fan of his. He’s a huge inspiration and I wish him all the best.”
Djokovic appeared to be not at his best level. He had to be seen by a physio in the second set. Yet, he still managed to break through and had a 5-2 lead at some point before Rune reclaimed the break.
Rune later conceded that winning against Djokovic was not the easiest feat.
“I know at the end when Novak goes into this mode, nothing can come at him and he plays really free and aggressive,” said Rune.
“When you want to close the match, it’s really difficult. He puts a lot of pressure on you, but I managed to hit some good shots and stay brave. That was the most important.”
“I think I was a little less brave in the second set but after the rain delay, I managed to come out and be brave even though I lost the set. I just told myself, ‘Okay, it’s all right, I just have to keep going.’”
Rune will next go up against Casper Ruud in the semifinals.