By Parsa Samii (GEM Tennis)

Earlier today Novak Djokovic defeated Roger Federer in three sets 6-4, 4-6, 6-2. At many decisive moments in the match, points were contested fiercely, but it’s the lack of rhythm that stands out most in reflecting upon this match. At different parts of the contest, both competitors struggled to find their games, Federer dealt with a mostly erratic forehand and a plethora of unforced errors. Djokovic on the other hand, had to deal with a sore back or hip and several times Djokovic had to deal with the calming of his nerves in big moments. The match went up, then down, then up again.

When Federer evened the match at one set all, the pro-Federer crowd erupted excitedly at the prospects of the their hero winning the title in the third. However, in a big swing of momentum Djokovic went up 4-0 and two breaks to completely dampen the spirits of the Swiss people and of the world #1 Federer.

“I have to produce something special to win,” Djokovic said at sold-out St. Jakobshalle in Basel. “I think I played one of the best matches of the year.”

Djokovic was clearly ecstatic on his ability to go into Federer’s favored court and defeat the world #1 convincingly in the third set. Federer was the three time defending champion and a former ball boy at the event as a child.

“It’s disappointing to lose at home in the finals, no doubt,” Federer said. “I thought I missed plenty of opportunities. I’m not looking for excuses. He played tough and he played well when he had to, and saved a ton of break points that were crucial.”

Could this be a sign of things to come? In recent months, it seems as though Djokovic is finally coming into his own as a player. He has all the physical ability and talent in the world. Since the addition of Todd Martin into his his camp, it seems as though Djokovic is learning to continue his fight against himself and his opponents until the bitter end. In his semifinal match on Saturday, Djokovic saved three match points against Czech Radek Stepanek and today he saved 9 break points en route to winning the title. Mental toughness is the one question mark that Djokovic has had to continually face in his professional tennis career and this week he showed great resiliency. If he can continue his deep routed beliefs in his abilities and championship spirit then look for Djokovic to get over the hump and plant himself atop the world rankings at some point next year. For now, it’ll be an exciting week at the Masters series Paris next week and also the year end championships in London on November 22.