Novak Djokovic has declared his 10th Australian Open title the “biggest victory in my life” after an arduous “four or five weeks”.
Djokovic defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets to once again draw level with Rafael Nadal for the most men’s grand slam singles titles and reclaim the world No.1 ranking.
His successful campaign comes just over 12 months after being deported from Australia due to his refusal to be vaccinated against Covid-19.
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Djokovic falls, Tsitsipas fights to hold | 01:10
Djokovic also battled a hamstring complaint that he said threatened to derail his Australian summer, which he has now progressed through undefeated.
Adding to the drama for Djokovic was controversy during the tournament surrounding his father Srdjan, who posed with pro-war protesters at Melbourne Park.
Srdjan released a statement before Djokovic’s semi-final saying he “had no intention of causing such headlines or disruption” and wished “only for peace”, opting not to attend his son’s semi-final or final.
Speaking after the win, which saw Djokovic overcome with emotion, the 22-time grand slam singles champion thanked his support team for their efforts.
“What a journey it has been for my family, my team and myself. I don’t know where to start and where to finish,” he said.
“I don’t take anything for granted, I know you guys are tolerating sometimes the worst sides of my character on and off the court and I appreciate the patience and the love and support you guys are giving me.
“I don’t know if you will ever forgive me, all these years what I’ve done to you guys. I have to repeat it over and over again, this trophy is yours as much as it is mine. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love and support.
“I have to say that this has been one of the most challenging tournaments I have ever played in my life. Considering the circumstances, not playing last year, coming back this year … only the team and my family knows what we’ve been through in the last four or five weeks, and this probably is the, I would say, biggest victory in my life considering the circumstances.”
