‘It’s not luck’ – Novak Djokovic praises Cameron Norrie ahead of his ATP Finals debut

Novak Djokovic recognises the hard work and impressive form required from Cameron Norrie that has culminated in his ATP Finals call-up.

Norrie has been pulled into the ATP Finals as second alternate after world number four Stefanos Tsitsipas withdrew due to a right elbow injury.

A similar injury ended the 2019 champion’s Paris Masters campaign in the lead-up to Turin.

Norrie will first face world number eight Casper Ruud before taking on five-time champion Djokovic to finish the group stage.

Norrie has an 0-1 record against Ruud, but has never played Djokovic before.

“I always like playing new players,” the Serb said after learning he will play Norrie. “Particularly in one of the greatest tournaments in the world here in Turin. Norrie deserves to be here, it’s not lucky.

“He worked his way to Turin with great wins in Indian Wells and some other tournaments, so it will be fun to watch him tonight against Ruud and I’ll get ready for my next match.”

Before Norrie, Jannik Sinner was called up as first alternate to replace compatriot Matteo Berrettini.

The 20-year-old took full advantage of his opportunity as he rattled Hubert Hurkacz 6-2, 6-2 to avenge his defeat at the hands of the Pole in the Miami Masters final in April.

Norrie will be hoping to do the same thing as the young Italian and show his best against Ruud. Like Sinner, Norrie could use his loss to Ruud as motivation.

He met the Norwegian in the final of the ATP 250 San Diego Open at the beginning of October. Ruud humbled Norrie 6-0, 6-2 that day, among the heaviest defeats of the Brit’s career.

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