In what turned out to be a one-sided final encounter, reigning world number one, Novak Djokovic of Serbia outplayed Russia's Daniil Medvedev in straight sets to win the 2021 Australian Open, in Melbourne, on Sunday. It was the Serbian's 18th Grand Slam title, besides being his ninth at Melbourne.
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The fourth-ranked Russian was off to a rough start in the opening set, as Djokovic broke early and found himself three games down. Nonetheless, Medvedev broke him back and held his serve until the fifth game. Meanwhile, Djokovic pushed hard with his cross-court forehand, while Medvedev looked to shorten the rallies, compelling himself to make errors, as the Serbian clinched the opening set 7-5.
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The second set was even better for Djokovic, as he rode on the same tactic and broke him for the fifth time during the match to walk away with a 6-2 win. Medvedev was visibly demoralised, having smashed his racquet at the end of the second set.
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The Serbian cruised in the third set, breaking the Russian early. Although Medvedev tried taking it to long rallies at the set's closing stages, Djokovic prevailed once again, indicating that the mind games won't work against him. In the end, it was a comfortable win for the Serbian, as he won the third set 6-2.
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Records and stats Djokovic scripts with this win:- He has won his 18th Grand Slam title, the second most after Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal (20 each).- He has extended his record at AO, having won his ninth title, which is the most by any men's player at the event, thus maintaining his 100% win record in Melbourne.- He is now 82-8 at AO.- He has also broken at least five games in each of the AO finals.- While it was his 23rd win in the 82 games at AO against the top-ten players, it was also his 11th against the top-four, with his only loss coming against Roger Federer of Switzerland in 2007 (fourth round).
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“I think it was a very successful tournament and praise Craig Tiley for a tremendous effort. It was challenging on many different levels and Tennis Australia should be very proud for making it possible,” said Djokovic after the win.
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“You’re a class guy. You’re not calling me anymore to practise in Monaco these past few years! On the court, Daniil is one of the toughest players I have ever faced in my life. It’s only a matter of time before you hold a Grand Slam trophy. If you can wait a few more years, I’d appreciate it. It’s amazing that he has put together a 20-match winning streak over the past few months,” Nole added.
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“Congratulations to Novak and your team. Nine Grand Slams in Australia and 18 in total is an amazing thing and it is probably not your last one,” said Medvedev following the game.
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