UPDATES WITH REMARKS FROM DJOKOVIC, TSITSIPAS, ADDITIONAL INFORMATION; REVISES HEADLINE
By Emre Asikci
ISTANBUL (AA) – Novak Djokovic defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets to clinch a record-extending 10th Australian Open title on Sunday.
The Serbian powered his way to a 6-3, 7-6, 7-6 victory at the Rod Laver Arena in just under three hours to equal Rafael Nadal men’s record of 22 Grand Slam crowns.
Djokovic’s latest success in Melbourne also catapults him from No. 5 to No. 1 in the ATP rankings.
Tsitsipas, 24, heaped praise on Djokovic for his incredible career, saying: “He’s the greatest that’s ever held a tennis racket.”
Djokovic thanked his young Greek challenger “for being so kind and respectful.”
“I would say that this is the biggest victory in my life considering the circumstances,” the Serbian said, a reference to his expulsion from last year’s Australian Open for refusing to get a COVID-19 vaccine shot.
Along with the glory and a triumphant return back to the top of tennis, Djokovic will leave Australia with $2.1 million in prize money.