Arnaldi broke Djokovic right away for a 2-0 lead, and closed out the center-court contest with a hold at 15. The return of serve may be the 24-time Grand Slam champion’s signature shot, but it was ineffective against the Italian in this must-break situation, and during the match at large. Arnaldi saved four of five break points and prevailed in straight sets despite winning just 55 percent of his first-serve points.
Returning at 3-4 in the second set, Djokovic got to 15-40, but Arnaldi held strong, showing virtually no nerves against a player he idolizes. Serving at 3-4 in the first set, Djokovic double faulted on break point.
“It was a rough day for Novak Djokovic,” said Tennis Channel’s Prakash Amritraj. “I didn’t see a pep in his step.”
Arnaldi concurred, in so many words: “He’s my idol. He’s always been. I’m just glad I could play him,” said the 24-year-old. “Playing him in a stage like this was already a victory for me. But you know, he’s not at his best right now.”
