Novak Djokovic confirmed his dominance of men’s tennis tonight, defeating Andy Murray 6-1, 7-5, 7-6 to claim his sixth Australian Open Men’s singles title.
Having beaten Roger Federer, Andreas Seppi and Kei Nishikori to reach the final, Djokovic simply picked up where he left off and swept Murray aside.
In the first set, Djokovic gave Murray absolutely nothing, showing poise and extreme power as he raced to 5-0 within 20 minutes, then broke Murray again in the seventh to take the set.
In the second set Murray showed why he deserved to be in the final, playing with great determination. Djokovic, to his credit, hung on, proving he could find yet another gear to surpass Murray.
But Murray fought to the end, taking the fight to Djokovich and giving himself a great chance to push the match to a fourth set, but it was not to be. Djokovich prevailed 7-3 in the tie-breaker, winning in less than three hours and showing why he is rated the best male tennis player in the world.
It was Djokovic’s sixth victory at Rod Laver Arena, equalling Roy Emerson’s record haul. Murray also established a record, but one he would rather forget – becoming the first man to walk away from five Australian Open finals without a win. – Jesse Mullens
Djokovic: "To Mr Roy Emerson who isn’t here tonight, it's a privilege to match your record of six #AusOpen titles" pic.twitter.com/jltjyQ9hn5
— Australian Open (@AustralianOpen) January 31, 2016
Djokovic: "Andy you are a great champion & friend. I'm sure you'll have more opportunities to fight for this trophy" pic.twitter.com/mFFuxUKiXA
— Australian Open (@AustralianOpen) January 31, 2016
Murray: "I just want to congratulate Novak. What he has done, it’s incredible. To him and his team, well done" pic.twitter.com/ltzCVj1TiH
— Australian Open (@AustralianOpen) January 31, 2016
Photo of Novak Djokovic from the Australian Open Facebook page.
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I am the sports editor for the Macleay Newsroom. I enjoy cooking and watching sport intently.
