Novak Djokovic won the 2023 Australian Open and equaled Rafael Nadal's record of 22 major tournament titles. He set this record after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas, Sunday (29/1/2023).
Djokovic captured his 10th Australian Open title after putting up a tough fight against Greek third seed Tsitsipas by winning 6-3, 7-6(4), 7-6(5) in the final on Rod Laver Arena. The 35-year-old's victory also ensured a return to the ATP rankings for the first time since last June, according to the ATP website, quoted on Sunday.
Djokovic will replace Carlos Alcaraz in the top spot on Monday after his win. Djokovic's dominance was evident from the start, although Tsitsipas stepped up his game in the second and third sets.
The Serb came out with sharp shots at key moments to seal victory in two hours and 56 minutes. Needing to change the rhythm of the match, Tsitsipas's thunderous serve and powerful forehand began to take off. On several occasions in the second set, the Greek reacted to win a crucial point by raising the spirits of his supporters in the crowd.
He pressured Djokovic to play in the tie break in the second set. However, Djkovic found a way through.
Tsitsipas threatened again in the third set. However, Djokovic responded well. She finished the third set on serve to claim a historic win, having been sidelined last year due to deportation citing a COVID-19 vaccine.
After making sure he brought home the title from Melbourne, Djokovic ran to his city of supporters which contained his coach and family, including his mother. She then burst into tears while dropping herself on the floor. When he returned to the players' bench to take turns he returned to tears by burying his face in the towel.
"I admit it was very challenging not being able to play last year, then coming back this year. I want to thank everyone who made me comfortable which is the reason I played well," said Djokovic when receiving the trophy.
"I also have to admit that looking back five weeks it was probably the best win of my life given the circumstances," Djokovic said of the hamstring injury he has sustained.
Meanwhile, despite falling short of becoming the first Greek to win a Grand Slam title, Tsitsipas will return to a career high of third in the ATP rankings on Monday after reaching his maiden final in Melbourne.