Novak Djokovic opens up on embracing box amid wild Australian Open celebrations - 'I emotionally collapsed'
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Published 29/01/2023 at 15:08 GMT
There were tearful scenes as Novak Djokovic hugged his brother and mother at the conclusion of the 2023 Australian Open following his victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas, with Eurosport's Tim Henman admitting he had "never seen anything like it". The last couple of weeks have been a rollercoaster for Djokovic and he admitted he "emotionally collapsed" when clambering up to his box.
'I emotionally collapsed' - Djokovic on tearful embrace with team after 10th Australian Open title
Novak Djokovic revealed that he “emotionally collapsed” when he embraced his box after claiming his 22nd Grand Slam singles title.
The Serb secured an unmatched 10th Australian Open crown with a 6-3 7-6(4) 7-6(5) win over Stefanos Tsitsipas for a record-equalling major in the men’s game.
It has been a rollercoaster fortnight for Djokovic and he couldn’t hide his emotions as he climbed into his player box amid wild celebrations before collapsing in tears as the enormity of his achievement sunk in.
He appeared more emotional than at almost any of his previous major wins, with Eurosport's Tim Henman saying he had "never seen anything like it".
Last year, Djokovic dominated the headlines for the wrong reasons after he was deported on the eve of the tournament.
He was excited to return to Australia this time around but had to battle a hamstring injury and had the added stress of a high-profile incident involving his father.
“I feel huge pride and satisfaction,” a delighted Djokovic said in his press conference.
“When I went into my box, I emotionally collapsed and teared up when I hugged my mother and brother.
“Up until that moment, I wasn’t allowing myself to be distracted with anything off the court or my injury.
“It required a huge mental energy to stay focused and present and see how far I could go.
“Two and half weeks ago, I didn't like my chances coming into the tournament with my leg injury. It was a matter of surviving each match and taking it into the next round.
“From the fourth round onwards, the injury wasn’t bothering me as much and I played some of my best tennis.”
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“Coming into Australia was something I was looking forward to,” he added.
“I feel great here. My results are testament to that. I always fancied my chances. I prepared well.
“I was more nervous considering last year and how I’d be received, but overall, it was a very positive experience.
“There were things that were happening - especially with my father - that weren’t easy to handle, but I kept it together.”
Djokovic dominated the opener as he wrapped up the set in just 38 minutes. But he was pushed by his Greek rival, particularly in a thrilling second set, and he was superior in the big points to emerge the victor in three sets.
“Against Stefanos, the match was going to be difficult and different,” continued Djokovic.
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“He’s often so dominant on the court, and I started well in the match. He was better in the second but didn’t make the most of his chances as I held my nerve in the tiebreaks.
“I wasn’t comfortable and was looking at my box for some help and guidance [at times].”
With this triumph, Djokovic now jointly holds the record of 22 Grand Slam singles crowns with Rafael Nadal, and despite his age, John McEnroe believes the 35-year-old will win at least three more.
Djokovic admits that trophies are his main motivation to continue competing.
“I am motivated to win as many Slams as possible,” he said. “The trophies, at this stage of my career, are the biggest motivational factor of why I still compete.
“I never like comparing myself to others, but it’s a privilege to be part of the GOAT discussion. If people see me like that, it’s very flattering.
“I have a lot of motivation; let’s see how far it takes me. I don’t want to stop here. I feel like I have a chance to win any Slam against anyone when I feel like I do.
“Physically, I can keep myself fit. 35 is not 25, even though I want to believe it is. I still feel there is time ahead of me.
“I always try to take away some important life and tennis lessons. I need to reflect on them.
“It’s some of the best tennis I’ve played at this tournament, perhaps even better than 2011 or 2015, or the years where I had a strong season.
“This is one of the top two or three performances I’ve produced at the Australian Open.
“You never know how much time you have left. I don’t take becoming world No. 1 and winning Slams for granted. It makes me incredibly proud, and it’s a relief because it hasn’t all been plain-sailing. That makes this victory even more special.”
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The 2023 Australian Open was live on discovery+, the Eurosport app and at eurosport.co.uk
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