As Novak Djokovic prepares to further cement his legacy in tennis history on Saturday, there is a tangible feeling of excitement in the air.  With just Hubert Hurkacz standing in his way in the Geneva Open final, the Serbian master, a seasoned fighter on the court, is aiming for his 100th ATP trophy.

 The 38-year-old Djokovic’s journey has been somewhat turbulent since he last experienced triumph in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.  After faltering at the penultimate hurdle in Shanghai last fall and Miami in March, he has come dangerously near.  But today, with a perfect 7-0 record against his Polish opponent, Djokovic is more focused beneath the brilliant sky and among the whispering trees of the clay courts of Parc des Eaux-Vives.

Djokovic would become the third guy in the sport to win 100 ATP championships if he were to succeed here; only the great Roger Federer (103), and the great Jimmy Connors (109), have accomplished this milestone.

 This will be Djokovic’s 143rd career final, which is an incredible accomplishment that demonstrates his persistent skill.  Additionally, it’s his 35th final on the clay, a surface where each slide and step has a backstory.  In the meanwhile, Herbert Hurkacz is focused on winning his 12th career final and adding a ninth championship to his collection.  The world number one Jannik Sinner defeated him in his final appearance in Halle in June 2024.

Fans are excitedly anticipating what seems to be an exciting contest between elegance and grit, and the stage is set.  Will Hurkacz write his own underdog tale, or will Djokovic finally claim his century of victories?  There is little doubt that every serve and rally will have tennis fans everywhere riveted to their chairs, their hearts racing.