Djokovic celebrates ‘big win’ on return to Basel

Friday, 30 October 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic pulled off a hard-fought comeback victory over Ugo Humbert on his first appearance in Basel for 15 years.

Battling in the final months of the year to keep alive his chances of qualifying for the season-ending ATP Finals in Turin, Djokovic celebrated what he viewed as a “big win” by overcoming Frenchman Ugo Humbert 4-6 6-3 6-4.

The men’s record 24-time major winner blasted a forehand winner down the line to end the contest after two and a half hours.

It ensured Djokovic, 11th in the race to Turin, remains in the hunt for a record 19th appearance at the ATP Finals, for which only the year’s top eight performers qualify. The 39-year-old beat great rival Roger Federer to win the Basel title in 2009, and had not played at the event since 2011.

“I was under attack from the very first point and had to weather the storm,” Djokovic said. “It’s my first indoor match, so I expected to be a little bit rusty in a tough draw. It is a big win for me, I know there are quite a few things I can do better but a win is a win, and I will take that today.”