Having arrived in Australia unvaccinated three hundred and sixty five days in the past, the 10-times Melbourne champion was once deported amid a backlash from indignant Australians who had persevered one of the most international’s hardest lockdowns as COVID-19 infections surged.
But the Serbian’s woes are actually smartly at the back of him and his 6-3 7-6(4) 7-6(5) victory over Tsitsipas was once met with thunderous applause from a packed crowd at Rod Laver Arena,
“I have to say that this has been one of the most challenging tournaments I have played in my life, considering the circumstances,” Djokovic stated in his on-court interview.
“Not playing last year, coming back this year. I want to thank all the people that made me feel welcome and comfortable to be in Melbourne, Australia.
“I attempt to pinch myself and in point of fact are living via those moments and it is a lengthy adventure… Only the staff and circle of relatives is aware of what we have now been via within the final 4 to 5 weeks. This, almost certainly, is the most important victory in my lifestyles taking into consideration the instances.”
In a rematch of the 2021 French Open decider, 24-year-old Tsitsipas was unable to convert the few chances he had as he failed to stop Djokovic winning his 22nd Grand Slam title.
“Tough success this night, nice fight. This is no doubt now not your final Grand Slam, you continue to have numerous time, a lot more than me,” said Djokovic.
“I’d additionally love to congratulate your circle of relatives and your staff… You are one of the vital skilled tennis avid gamers that I do know at the excursion, and one of the vital fascinating guys.”
Tsitsipas, who fell brief of turning into the primary Greek tennis participant to win a Grand Slam, recommended Djokovic’s contribution to the game.
“I’ve had the privilege to play numerous top depth suits, however I wish to say yet another time that Novak brings the most productive out of me and those are the suits I’ve been operating my whole lifestyles for,” Tsitsipas said.
“He is among the largest in our game and I believe he’s the best that has ever held the tennis racket.
“I would like to thank you for pushing our sport so far and it deserves a player like you who pushes every single player who is involved in this sport.”