MELBOURNE, January 27, 2019

Novak Djokovic became the first man in history to win seven Australian Open titles, and claimed sole ownership of the record for most trophies down under, ahead of Roger Federer and Roy Emerson, who have each won six Australian titles.

The World No. 1 defeated World No. 2 Rafael Nadal of Spain 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 in dominant fashion. Djokovic set the tone early, dictating most of the rallies right from the beginning. The 31-year-old Serbian won 84 per cent of his second service points and broke the Spaniard’s serve five times. Djokovic celebrated by dropping to his knees and roaring his delight after two hours and four minutes.

Novak Djokovic (🎥@Eurosport_RU ) pic.twitter.com/MekTIa3G9h

— doublefault28 (@doublefault28) 27. Januar 2019

Nadal was bidding to become the first man in the Open Era – and only the third man in history – to win each of the four Grand Slam titles twice.

Talking about myself. It has been an emotional two weeks,” Nadal said. “Even if tonight wasn’t the best day of course I had someone who played much better than me tonight. It has been a very important two weeks for me. I have been going through moments through in the last year. I had only the chance to play nine events (last year) and I had to retire in two, including this one.  Even if it wasn’t my night it is so important for me to be here tonight coming back from injury.

“I can only say I am going to keep fighting hard, working hard to be a better player.” 

Djokovic and Nadal will remain at No. 1 and No. 2 in the rankings, respectively, when the new rankings are released on Monday.

“I would like to return the favour and give compliments to Rafa’s couple of weeks,” Djokovic said. “Tough match tonight but as you said he came back from an injury that took you out of the tour since September last year. You were unfortunate throughout your career to go through some major injuries but you are showing to me and to all your other colleagues and young tennis players around the world what the definition is of fighting spirit and resilience.

Djokovic also underwent surgery on his elbow last year and he was clearly emotional at the journey he has gone through in the last year.

“I’m just trying to contemplate the journey in the last 12 months. I had the surgery exactly 12 months ago so to be standing in front of you today and to win this title and three out of four Slams is amazing. I’m speechless.”