Novak Djokovic: French Open always the hardest to win

Jonhenry Wilson
Novak Djokovic plays at 2023 French Open final
Novak Djokovic hits ball at 2023 French Open final

New French Open champion Novak Djokovic celebrated winning a 23 Grand Slam title on Sunday.

Djokovic beat Norwegian 7-6 (1), 6-3, 7-5 to become the first man to win this many Grand Slam titles. This is his third French Open title. He also has three US Open, seven Wimbledon and 10 Australian Open titles.

“I’m really delighted to be here to share this special moment in my career with you. A coincidence that I’ve won my 23rd Grand Slam here in Paris – this tournament has always been the hardest to win for me, so I’m very emotional right now, it means a lot to me,” said Djokovic.

“I’ve experienced a lot of things on the court and off the court. I’m really honoured to be here on this special court. Thanks for your energy today and throughout the tournament.

“I am beyond fortunate in my life to win 23 Grand Slams – it’s an incredible feeling. I would like to use the moment – my kids are here and I always try to convey some values, some messages, something they can learn from and draw some inspiration.

“I would just like to send a message to every young person out there – whatever you are persuading whether it is tennis, sports, anything else. I was a seven-year-old dreaming I could win Wimbledon and become number one in the world.

“As I said, I’m beyond blessed that I can be standing here with so many incredible achievements but one thing is for sure – I believed I could have the power to create my own destiny.

“I could visualise every single thing in my life, not only believe it but really feel it with every cell of my body. Stay in the present, let go of the past, the future is just going to happen but if you want a better future, take the means in your hands, believe it, create it.”

Ruud, who lost last year’s French Open and US Open final as well, praised Djokovic. He had also finished runner-up to Djokovic at the ATP Finals in Turin in 2022.

“Another day, another record for Novak. Another day you rewrite tennis history, again. It’s tough to explain how incredible it is and how good you are. You are an inspiration to so many people around the world. I’m happy to be the first to congratulate you. Go and enjoy it all now,” said Ruud.

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