Djokovic wins record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam title in French Open
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Novak Djokovic wins a third French Open title and ends the tie of 22 Slams he shared with career-long rival Rafael Nadal.
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Tennis star Novak Djokovic celebrating his third French Open title, in Paris, France, June 11, 2023 (Roland-Garros Twitter account)
Tennis star Novak Djokovic created history on Sunday after he won his record-breaking 23rd men's Grand Slam title.
The 36-year-old Serb defeated Norway's Casper Ruud 7-6 (7/1), 6-3, 7-5 to win a third French Open title and end the tie of 22 Slams he shared with career-long rival Rafael Nadal.
"It's an incredible feeling to win 23. I'm beyond grateful and blessed to be standing here with so many incredible achievements," expressed Djokovic after his win, as quoted by AFP.
He continued, "It's no coincidence that my 23rd Grand Slam title has come here because it has been the hardest one for me to win in my career. I am very emotional right now and I am very, very proud."
The Serb is the first man to win all four majors at least three times.
When asked if he could win a 24th and 25th Grand Slam, Djokovic replied, "Yes, why not. I feel good this year, I won the two Grand Slams that I played (Melbourne then Roland Garros). So why not?"
"I am very motivated, very inspired to continue to make history in this sport."
Only Margaret Court and Serena Williams in women's tennis have managed to win 23 Grand Slam titles. A 24th title will now be in Djokovic's sights at Wimbledon next month.
"I'm going to look to win Wimbledon again. I've won the last four Wimbledons, I feel good on the grass," he said.
Djokovic is now the oldest French Open champion, with 11 of his Slam trophies won after he turned 30. His coach Goran Ivanisevic hailed his physical fitness, describing him as a "Ninja" on court.
On Monday, Djokovic will reclaim the world number one ranking from Carlos Alcaraz, who he defeated in the semi-finals in Paris.
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