Tennis / Djokovic beats Medvedev to win his 18th Grand Slam, only 2 behind Nadal and Federer

World number one Novak Djokovic defeated Daniil Medvedev to win Australian Open for a record-extending ninth time. Djokovic has now won 18 Grand Slams and is now just two behind Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. Djokovic also joined 13-time French Open champion Nadal as only the second man to win nine or more titles at the same Grand Slam event.

Vikrant Shekhawat : Feb 21, 2021, 04:42 PM
MELBOURNE: In the climax of a tournament overshadowed by COVID-19 pandemic uncertainty, Novak Djokovic remained an unbreakable force as he thrashed Daniil Medvedev to claim a record-extending ninth Australian Open title on Sunday.

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 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.

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.

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