Djokovic outclasses Nadal to win record 7th Australian Open title

Novak Djokovic overpowered rival Rafael Nadal to win the 2019 Australian Open, and become the player with the highest number of victories in Melbourne.

The Serb saw off his Spaniard opponent in three sets, to claim a 6-3 6-2 6-3 victory in two hours and four minutes on Sunday.

Djokovic had won the Australian Open title in 2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016 – and now in 2019 – moves clear of six-time men’s winners Roy Emerson and Roger Federer.

The match was an ATP record-extending 53rd meeting between Djokovic and Nadal, whose rivalry in the sport is well known.

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“I would like to say hello to my family, starting with my wife and son and daughter. I hope they’ve been watching. At least, they said before the match they would watch!

“Trophies are even more special when I have someone so dear and special to me in my life to share it with. They are dearest people on this planet. I love them very much.

“I want to thank them for unconditional love and support. I try to always remind myself and not take that for granted,” said the World number one.

Nadal, who was aiming to be the first man in the Open era to win to win all the Grand Slams at least twice but failed, took solace in the fact that he had only recently returned from an injury.

“Even if tonight was not my night, to me it’s so important to be where I am today, coming back from injury,” he said.

“I really believe I played a great two weeks of tennis. That’s going to be a good inspiration for myself for what’s coming. Thanks to all my team.

“I can only say one thing – I am going to keep working and keep fighting hard to become a better player.”

 

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