Djokovic on cloud nine in Australia after Medvedev mauling

MELBOURNE (Reuters): A tournament that had to contend with many uncertainties due to the COVID-19 pandemic, climaxed with Novak Djokovic remaining an unbreakable force as he thrashed Daniil Medvedev to claim a record-extending ninth Australian Open title yesterday.

The world number one’s 7-5 6-2 6-2 triumph under the lights at Rod Laver Arena secured his 18th Grand Slam title, bringing him within tantalising reach of Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal’s all-time men’s record of 20.

Much like Dominic Thiem in last year’s final, Djokovic faced an opponent desperate for success and his own seat at the Grand Slam table.

Unlike Thiem, who pushed Djokovic to five sets, Medvedev never really threatened in his second Grand Slam final.

Djokovic made a mockery of the Russian’s 20-match winning streak and his pre-match barb that all the pressure to win was on the champion.

He broke him seven times for the match and closed out the one-sided contest with a net-rush and a brilliant leaping volley.

Having extended his unbeaten record in nine finals at Melbourne Park, the Serb roared in triumph and wrapped up his team in a group hug.

After acknowledging Medvedev’s congratulations, Djokovic thanked the blue centre court during the trophy ceremony.

“I would like to thank Rod Laver Arena. I love you each year more and more. It’s been a love affair that keeps growing. Thank you so much,” he said. “On the court, he’s (Medvedev) definitely one of the toughest players that I ever faced in my life.

“It’s a matter of time when you hold a Grand Slam that’s for sure. If you don’t mind waiting a few more years.” 

Djokovic now has won six Grand Slam titles after the age of 30, equalling Nadal’s record.