Novak Djokovic once again proved his dominance in the tennis world with his 10th Australian Open championship, a feat that has cemented his status as one of the greatest players of all time. At 35 years and 252 days old, he is now the third-oldest man in the Open Era to win the tournament.
“This has been one of the most challenging tournaments I have played in my life,” said Djokovic. “What a journey it has been for my family, my team, and myself.” He defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6(4), 7-6(5) in the final match on Sunday night at Rod Laver Arena.
With this win, Djokovic equals Rafael Nadal’s record of 22 major championships and returns to the top as world No.1. He added, “I try to pinch myself and really live through these moments. Only the team and the family knows what we have been through in the last four or five weeks.”
For Tsitsipas, it was his second Grand Slam final defeat, the first coming against Djokovic in the 2021 Roland-Garros final. “I find myself in the position, couldn’t be more ready for this moment,” said the 24-year-old. “I just see no downside or negativity in what I’m trying to do out there.”
Despite Tsitsipas’ optimistic attitude, Djokovic proved to be too much, as he dominated from the start with seven of the first nine points, leading to a 3-1 advantage. The pressure mounted as the match went on, but Djokovic’s champion’s instincts took over in the tie-breaks, ultimately leading to his victory.
“I know what’s ahead of me,” said Djokovic. “Fortunately for me at this stage of my career, because of all the achievements, it is always basically every match or every tournament there is always something on the line, particularly when the Grand Slams are played.”
Novak Djokovic Longest Ever Winning Streaks in Australian Open
Novak Djokovic thrilling three-set match to win his 10th Australian Open title extend his era-defining legacy.
Djokovic Dominates Tsitsipas
In Rod Laver Arena, Djokovic showed why he is considered the best player in the world. Throughout the match, he dominated with his finesse and agility, constantly putting pressure on Tsitsipas. He was razor-sharp from the start, quickly building a 3-1 lead in the first set. In the second set, Djokovic showed his unwavering defiance and defense, fending off multiple set points from Tsitsipas. The match was decided in two tiebreaks, where Djokovic displayed his champion’s instincts and took control of the match.
Despite being the third-oldest man in the Open Era to win the Australian Open, Djokovic continues to defy expectations and extend his already impressive list of achievements. He holds the record for the most weeks as world No.1 in men’s tennis and has won 10 majors since turning 30, making him one of the most successful tennis players of all time.
For 24-year-old Tsitsipas, the Australian Open final was a significant opportunity to prove himself against one of the best players in the world. Despite falling short, he remained optimistic and positive about his performance.
“I just see no downside or negativity in what I’m trying to do out there,” said Tsitsipas. “Even if it doesn’t work, I’m very optimistic and positive about any outcome, any opponent that I have to face.”
In the end, it was Novak Djokovic who dominated the match and lifted the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup for the 10th time in his career. As he begins his 374th week as world No.1, Djokovic continues to solidify his status as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.
