Novak Djokovic’s Perspective on the French Open 2023 Final and the Debate on ‘The Greatest
Novak Djokovic made history on Sunday by winning his 23rd Grand Slam title, surpassing the previous record of 22 shared with Rafael Nadal. Djokovic defeated Casper Ruud in the French Open final, winning 7-6 (7/1), 6-3, 7-5. With this victory, Djokovic further solidifies his claim as the greatest tennis player of all time.
Djokovic expressed his gratitude and excitement after the match, acknowledging the significance of his 23rd Grand Slam title. He mentioned that winning at the French Open was particularly meaningful as it was the most challenging tournament for him to win throughout his career. Djokovic now has three French Open titles to add to his collection, along with his 10 Australian Open titles, seven at Wimbledon, and three at the US Open.
With his latest victory, Djokovic becomes the first male player to win each of the four major tournaments at least three times. He is now halfway to achieving a calendar Grand Slam, a feat that hasn’t been accomplished since Rod Laver in 1969. Djokovic’s skills and mental fortitude on all surfaces continue to impress, as acknowledged by tennis legend Rod Laver.
In the women’s game, only Margaret Court and Serena Williams have reached the 23 Grand Slam titles mark. Djokovic now has his sights set on surpassing Court’s all-time record of 24 titles at the upcoming Wimbledon tournament.
Despite being the oldest French Open champion, Djokovic shows no signs of slowing down. Eleven of his Grand Slam titles have been won after the age of 30. He will also regain the world number one ranking on Monday, marking his 388th week at the top spot.
Rafael Nadal, who missed this year’s French Open due to injury, congratulated Djokovic on his remarkable achievement and described it as an “incredible achievement.” Casper Ruud, Djokovic’s opponent in the final, acknowledged Djokovic’s record-breaking accomplishment and his ability to rewrite tennis history.
Numerous sports celebrities were in attendance at the final, including NFL legend Tom Brady, football stars Kylian Mbappe and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and former world heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson.
The match itself saw an early challenge for Djokovic as Ruud took an early lead, but Djokovic regained control and dominated the match. He won the first set in a tiebreak and went on to break Ruud’s serve in the second set, eventually securing victory in the third set after three hours and 13 minutes of play.
Djokovic expressed his appreciation for his team, including his coach Goran Ivanisevic and his wife Jelena, acknowledging their support and belief in him throughout his career.
Overall, Djokovic’s 23rd Grand Slam title is a remarkable achievement that further solidifies his place in tennis history and strengthens the argument for him being considered the greatest player of all time.
