Djokovic is in pursuit of his 100th career title, and is one step closer after defeating the Italian in the ATP 250 event.
The Serb is also looking to build momentum on clay ahead of Roland Garros, which Djokovic has been given a favourable draw for.
Despite the win, his contest with Arnaldi didn’t come without its difficulties, with the 24-time major champion smashing his racket in frustration during the second set.
Djokovic analysed his victory over the eighth seed and explained how his current level is feeling.
Novak Djokovic says he is playing ‘really good’ tennis at the Geneva Open
Speaking on court after the match, Djokovic said: “Last year I got to the semi-finals, hopefully this year I can go at least a step better. That’s the goal.”
“I think I’m playing really, really good tennis. Today was as I said, a lot of tension on the court. It was much closer than maybe the scoring indicates.”
“I was four all down in the second, and somehow after the racket breaking, I didn’t lose a game.”
“I kind of found my optimal state and balance mentally and emotionally to really be able to play the best tennis when it was most needed, so hopefully I can carry that into tomorrow.”
Novak Djokovic’s pursuit of a 100th career title at the Geneva Open
Djokovic currently has 99 career titles to his name, including a record 24 Grand Slam crowns.
His last title on the tour came in 2023, when he won the ATP Finals. Apart from his Paris Olympics triumph, he has failed to win a tournament since then.
With the window of opportunity closing for Djokovic to win his 100th career title, the Serb has given himself a great chance of achieving the feat in Geneva.
Only two players in the Open Era of the men’s game have won more than 100 career titles, with Roger Federer tallying 103 and Jimmy Connors winning 109.
