Schwartzman dreams big

ROME, Italy (AFP) — Novak Djokovic said it felt “strange” not playing Rafael Nadal in the final of the Italian Open as he prepares to meet his great rival’s slayer for the Rome trophy.

The Serbian, a four-time winner, takes on Argentine Diego Schwartzman in his 10th final on the clay of the Foro Italico, after dominating Norwegian Casper Ruud 7-5, 6-3 in Sunday’s semifinals.

One, it’s winning a tournament like this. And the second one, be top 10.

Eight seed Schwartzman battled past Canadian Denis Shapovalov 6-4, 5-7, 7-6 (7/4), a day after dumping Nadal in the quarterfinals.

“Of course, you know, with Nadal in the finals and without Nadal in the finals makes a big difference,” said Djokovic, who has lost three to Nadal, including last season.

“Most of the finals that I reached in the big events on clay I played against Rafa,” continued the Serb. “So it’s going to be strange not facing him.” Djokovic has won all four of his previous meetings against Schwartzman, but Nadal had beaten the Argentine in all nine of their previous meetings.

“Diego played the match of his life (against Nadal). “He was so impressive. And that proves that anything is possible, even Nadal who is probably the toughest challenge in our sport, playing Nadal on clay.

“But he managed to win in straight sets, so that proves his quality.”

Djokovic, 33, will bid for a record 36th Masters title on Sunday, being currently tied on 35 with Nadal.

For Schwartzman, ranked 15th, a top ten place in the world is at stake, and a fourth career title.

“I have two dreams, you know, tomorrow,” the 28-year-old from Buenos Aires said.

“One, it’s winning a tournament like this. And the second one, be top 10. Both are there tomorrow on court against Novak.”