Novak Djokovic is through to the finals of the Australian Open after he defeated American player Tommy Paul 7-5, 6-1, 6-2 in the semis on Friday.
He will next go up against Greek sensation Stefanos Tsitsipas and will effectively battle it out of the Number 1 spot in the ATP rankings.
In his return from the dramatics of his 2022 deportation from Australia, Djokovic once again has the chance to win yet another Australian Open title, his 10th if he is successful. It will also be his 22nd Grand Slam title, which puts him even with long-time rival Rafael Nadal who won last year at Melbourne Park.
“We both had heavy legs in the first set … I was really fortunate to hold my nerves in the first set and then I started swinging through the ball more. I’m just really pleased,” said Djokovic about his match.
Djokovic’s and Paul’s match lasted two hours and 20 minutes at the Rod Laver Arena.
In his post-match interview, he was asked if he ever imagined that 15 years after his first win, he’d still be getting a swing at the title.
“I don’t think I’d have imagined this … what can I say? … I’m grateful … I cherish every moment … without my family, without my team, things wouldn’t be possible,” Djokovic responded.
The Finals is set for Sunday and whoever wins will go straight to Number 1, leapfrogging Carlos Alcaraz.
Speaking of Tsitsipas, Djokovic said:
“He’s improved a lot over the years … I actually think he’s one of the most interesting guys on the tour … let the better player win.”
