Novak Djokovic surpasses Rafael Nadal with record 23rd Grand Slam after win over Casper Ruud at French Open

Novak Djokovic surpassed Rafael Nadal with his 23rd Grand Slam title – a men’s record – as he outclassed Casper Ruud to win a third Roland-Garros crown. After playing a flawless tie-break in the first set, the Serb ripped away from Ruud to win 7-6(1) 6-3 7-5 and further cement his claim to be the GOAT (greatest of all time).

Ad Djokovic fell back on the court after a looping Ruud forehand sailed into the tramlines on his second match point as the enormity of his achievement hit home. Roland-GarrosRuud delights crowd with incredible tweener against Djokovic38 MINUTES AGO He now shares the Open Era record of major titles with American great Serena Williams, while he is the first man to win all four Slams at least three times.

«I’m really delighted to be here to share this special moment in my career with you,» Djokovic told the crowd in his post-match interview. «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.

»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." Scary moment Djokovic tumbles over in final — 'He’s lucky' Exclusive: Swiatek reflects on 'really emotional final' after latest Paris triumph Ruud made a lightning start on Court Philippe-Chatrier as he raced into a 3-0 lead, but Djokovic slowly warmed to his task and broke back as the quality ramped up. The Norwegian, playing in his third major final in the last 12 months, had an opening at 0-30 when leading 5-4, but was too passive as Djokovic turned aggressor to win four points in succession for a big hold.