'King of Melbourne Park' Djokovic lands 10th Australian Open title

MELBOURNE: An emotional Novak Djokovic resumed his reign over Melbourne Park by winning a record-extending 10th Australian Open title on Sunday (Jan 29) and crushing the Grand Slam dream of Greek trailblazer Stefanos Tsitsipas in a one-sided final.

In a rematch of the 2021 French Open decider, Djokovic swept to a 6-3 7-6(4) 7-6(5) victory at Rod Laver Arena to reclaim the world number one ranking and again deny Tsitsipas a maiden major crown.

The atmosphere was electric and the crowd often unruly as Serbian and Greek fans bayed in the terraces as if roaring on football teams.

But at the finish familiar chants of "Nole! Nole" won out as Djokovic stormed to a 5-0 lead in the final tiebreak and closed out the match with a thumping forehand down the line.

Djokovic's record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam triumph, matching Rafa Nadal's haul, was the ultimate redemption a year on from his sensational deportation from Australia on the eve of the Grand Slam due to his lack of COVID-19 vaccination.

"I have to say this has been the most challenging tournament I have played in my life," said Djokovic as he cradled the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup.

"Not playing last year, coming back this year.

"This is probably the biggest victory in my life considering the circumstances."

After sealing match point, the 35-year-old Serb tapped his temple then his heart before walking to the net to shake hands with Tsitsipas.

He climbed into his players box and unleashed a primal scream before breaking down in tears while hugging his mum.

The tears were still flowing after he returned to his chair and sat with a towel draped over his head.

Despite saying repeatedly he bore no grudges over his deportation, Djokovic left no one in doubt that it would fuel his success.