Djokovic wins Australian Open to equal Nadal's record

Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic won the Australian Open after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas and winning his record-tying 22nd Grand Slam men's title.

Djokovic had a good start and persevered throughout the second set to win by scores of 6-3, 7-6 (7-4) and 7-6 (7-5)

The 35-year-old will reclaim the top spot in the global rankings after tying Rafael Nadal in major victories.

Tsitsipas, who is still seeking his first Grand Slam victory, lost a two-set lead to Djokovic in his first major final at the 2021 French Open but this time the Serbian was in complete control.

The third seed failed to convert on the few crucial chances he had to put Djokovic in danger, most notably a set point to equal the match at one set apiece.

Tsitsipas exhibited tenacity to save two championship opportunities, but Djokovic pounced on his third opportunity when his rival hit a long return. This time, he did so on his own serve.

Djokovic stood motionless before turning to face his team and his family, which included mother Dijana. He then pointed to his head and his heart and climbed into the box to celebrate with them while also bursting into tears. He remained crying under his towel when he went back to his chair.

"I have to say 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," said Djokovic.

"I try to pinch myself and really live through these moments. It's a long journey. Only the team and the family know what we have been through in the last four or five weeks.

"I would say this is probably the biggest victory of my life, considering those circumstances."

Djokovic's winning streak at Melbourne Park, which has lasted a record 28 wins in men's singles, began in 2018.

He has reclaimed the title that he was unable to defend the previous year due to his deportation from Australia as a result of a dispute regarding his COVID-19 immunisation status.

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