Novak Djokovic Defeats Rafael Nadal at Sony Ericsson Open

Serbian tennis great Novak Djokovic extended his perfect season record on Sunday afternoon by defeating World No. 1 Rafael Nadal of Spain in the men's finals of the 2011 Sony Ericsson Open.

After losing the first set to a strong-looking Nadal, 23-year-old Djokovic went on to win the match in a third-set tiebreak. The final score: 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(4).

"Such a close match," said Djokovic after the match. "To win against the No. 1 player of the world in a tiebreak in the third set, it's just incredible."

Nadal, who knows all about becoming a dominant force in professional tennis, acknowledged that Djokovic is simply playing great tennis right now.

"What he's doing is unbelievable," said Nadal. "First thing, he's very good; second thing, he's playing with big confidence. When you're winning, it's easier to keep winning."

And although some are claiming that Djokovic is on his way to taking the No. 1 spot this season, the 23-year-old knows that it will be hard work to take the crown from 24-year-old Rafa.

"It's the best four months in my life, but it's only the start of the season," said Djokovic. "It's a bit early to talk about getting that top spot in the rankings. Rafa is definitely the best player in the world now. If I want to have the No. 1 ranking, I need to play consistently well throughout the whole year."

Djokovic's victory in Key Biscane, FL, represents his 26th straight win, his 24th straight win this season, his fourth straight tournament title, and his second straight finals win against Rafa. His 24-0 season streak is the best such streak since Ivan Lendl started off his season 25-0 back in 1986.

(Sources: Associated Press)

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