Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open, ties men’s record with 22nd Grand Slam crown

MELBOURNE, Australia — Novak Djokovic rolled to his 10th Australian Open men’s singles title and a record-tying 22nd Grand Slam crown on Sunday, defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6 (4), 7-6 (5).

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A year after being banned from the Australian Open because of his vaccination status, Djokovic tied longtime rival Rafael Nadal for the most men’s major singles titles. Margaret Court (24), Serena Williams (23) and Steffi Graf (22) have the most singles championships among women.

Djokovic also reclaimed the top spot in the world rankings. At 35, he is the second oldest man to reach that plateau, The New York Times reported. Only Roger Federer, at 37, has risen to No. 1 at such an advanced age for a men’s tennis player. Djokovic turns 33 on May 22.

Tsitsipas, 24, from Greece, was competing in his second Grand Slam final. It was Djokovic’s 33rd final in a major.

Djokovic did not compete in last year’s Australian Open after being deported from the country because he was not vaccinated against COVID-19, The Associated Press. But with restrictions eased this year, Djokovic was able to compete and earn his 10th Grand Slam title in Australia. Only Federer and Roy Emerson, with six victories Down Under, are close to the Serbian native.

How dominant was Djokovic in this year’s event? He lost only one set in seven matches, according to the Times.

In addition to his 10 titles in Australia, Djokovic has won seven Wimbledon crowns, three U.S. Open titles and two French Open championships.

His 93rd ATP tour title allowed him to move ahead of Nadal to No. 4 all-time among men. Jimmy Connors owns the record with 109, according to the AP.

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