An invincible Novak Djokovic landed a historic record seventh men’s title at the Australian Open and third successive Grand Slam with a tennis masterclass to crush his great rival Rafael Nadal.
The world No 1 obliterated Nadal in one of the great Grand Slam final performances, winning 6-3 6-2 6-3, finishing with 34 winners and only nine unforced errors on his way to a famous victory in two hours and four minutes.
“I am just trying to contemplate on the journey in the last 12 months,” said a beaming Djokovic at the trophy ceremony. “Like Rafa, I had surgery exactly 12 months ago, and to be standing now here in front of you today and managing to win this title and managing to win three out of four slams is amazing. I am speechless.”
The showdown between world No 1 Djokovic and second seed Nadal was their 53rd meeting on tour and a repeat of their incredible 2012 final which lasted seven minutes short of six hours, the longest Grand Slam title match in history.
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