Djokovic’s No-Look Pass vs. Isner

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Djokovic’s No-Look Pass vs. Isner

How in the world does Novak Djokovic make returning John Isner’s serve look easy? Well, ok, easy might be a little carried away, but the Serb was able to get the break he needed during his 7-6(3), 6-2 victory over the American in the Miami Open semis on Friday night.

Djokovic Razor-Sharp in Takedown of Isner; Will Face Murray in Miami Final

And, thanks in part to this little piece of hot-doggery (see video above), the Serb was able to get the double-break on Isner to finish off his win in style.

This subtle, no-look forehand pass actually takes a page from his rival Roger Federer’s playbook. The nonchalance? The light, feathery flick? Perhaps Djokovic has picked up a few tricks from the Swiss in their 38 previous meetings? But the great read off the Isner serve out wide, the deep and effective block return and the incredible skidding backhand to stay in the point were all trademark Nole.

Let’s just say this: There are very few players that would have found themselves in position to win a point like that against Isner after the first two shots of the rally. Look at where the Serb is when he finishes the return! His left foot is on the outside of the doubles alley and yet he still manages to traverse the length of the baseline, skidding into his backhand counter just in the nick of time to fire back Isner's forehand with interest. Only Djokovic can produce this type of defensive handiwork.

It was a beautiful play by Djokovic, and it looks even better when one takes into consideration the distance that Djokovic travels--and the anticipation that is required--to make those three shots.

As far as the finishing pass, well it was pure genius. Djokovic made it impossible for Isner to guess which way he was going on the play and, at the last possible second he flicked the ball at an impossible angle ever so delicately to win the point.

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