Novak Djokovic extended his Australian Open winning streak when he won the trophy for the ninth time on Sunday. With an easy 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 win over Russian Daniil Medvedev, the world number one took his Grand Slam tally to 18, just two shy of Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal’s men’s record of 20.

“Last but not least I would like to thank this court,” he said.

“I would like to thank Rod Laver Arena. I love you each year more and more. It’s been a love affair that keeps growing. Thank you so much,” said the Serbian.

Djokovic snapped Medvedev’s 20-match winning run in emphatic fashion. The 33-year-old, who improved to 18-0 in semi-final and final clashes at the Australia Open, also avenged his 6-3, 6-3 loss to the Russian at last year’s Nitto ATP Finals.

Djokovic opened his ninth championship match ferociously, racing to a 3-0 lead in under 10 minutes. He broke Medvedev serve at 1-0. Medvedev returned the compliment, and at 6-5 Djokovic, with aggressive forehands and backhand passing shots earned three set points. He converted his third opportunity when Medvedev fired a forehand into the net.

After dropping serve in the opening game of the second set, Djokovic won four straight games to take control of the match. He broke serve for the fifth time with a huge forehand return to clinch the second set.

In the third set, Djokovic capitalised on double faults to earn a break point and he took his opportunity. His confidence continued to grow throughout the set and Medvedev could not find a way through his defence. On his first championship point, Djokovic charged to the net and struck an overhead winner to clinch the title.

The story was filed by the News Desk. The Desk can be reached at info@thecorrespondent.com.pk.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here