Dominant Djokovic breezes past Berdych to win his fourth Dubai title in five years

Novak Djokovic defeated Tomas Berdych to win the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
The world No 1, who won this event in 2009, 2010 and 2011 and has yet to lose this year, saw off his third seeded opponent 7-5, 6-3 in one hour and 34 minutes.
The first set went with serve until the fifth game, which Berdych took with a tremendous cross-court volley.

 

Show of strength: Novak Djokovic saw off the challenge of Tomas Berdych to win his fourth Dubai title

 

However, the Czech found the net with a gaping court in front of him to give Djokovic the break back in the eighth game.
Djokovic had two break points in the 12th game and took the first of them to clinch the set in 51 minutes.
The first seven games of the second set went with serve but then Djokovic made the decisive breakthrough and held the following game to wrap up the victory.

 

On the run: Berdych returns to Djokovic, but was unable to keep up with the world No 1

 

The Serbian, receiving the trophy and cheque for $429,600 (£285,000), said afterwards: 'I had a good feeling and good vibe about the tournament.
'There are always three or four top 10 players participating here. I enjoy competing for this trophy.'
Berdych told the post-match presentation: 'I didn't have enough today. Novak was too good today and deserved to win.