05 June,2011 07:56 AM IST | | AFP
Novak Djokovic said he knew his 43-match winning run would have to end, but insisted that his heartbreaking French Open semi-final defeat to a rejuvenated Roger Federer will make him stronger.
Djokovic suffered a stunning 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7/5) loss to Federer which ended his hopes of making a first Roland Garros final and temporarily halted his bid to snatch the World No 1 spot. But the 24-year-old World No 2 was adamant he will learn vital lessons from the semi-final which ended in the Paris gloom after three and half hours of gripping action.
Novak Djokovic
"It was a great tournament. It was the best five months of my life and my tennis career. I cannot complain. It was definitely an incredible period. It had to end somewhere. I knew it was coming," said Djokovic.
"Unfortunately, it came in the bad moment. It was a big match today. But that's sport. I will keep on working hard."
Defeat also left Djokovic one win short of matching John McEnroe's 1984 mark of a 42-match winning start to a season.
Federer dominated the crucial parts of the semi-final. He served 18 aces, the last of which secured him victory on a third match point, and carved out 25 break point opportunities as Djokovic was forced constantly on the defensive.
"He played an incredible match today," said Djokovic of a player he had defeated three times already in 2011.
"He went for the shots and served really well when he needed to. A couple of points really decide the winner, especially at this level. I was aware of that. There's not much to be sorry for."
