Australian Open—Melbourne, Australia
World No. 1 Novak Djokovic poured in a stunning performance at the Australian Open in Melbourne on Sunday, dismissing his long-time rival Rafael Nadal 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 to capture his seventh title Down Under.
Proving too much from the get-go, Djokovic’s form and confidence was evident. From hitting scissor kick backhands in the first game, to returning Nadal’s much-improved serve back on the baseline, the legendary Serb was in complete control of the two hour and four minute match from start-to-finish. Striking eight aces and winning 80 percent of his first serve points, 84 percent of his second serve points and breaking serve on five occasions, Djokovic never lost his delivery and kept Nadal to only 51 percent of his first serve points won.
Claiming his 15th overall Major and moving ahead of Pete Sampras (14 Majors), Djokovic now holds three of the four Grand Slams on Tour with the French Open in his sights later this Spring.
Nadal, who was attempting to become the first player in the Open era to win every Major on at least two occasions, didn’t lose a set entering the final. The Hall-of-Fame Spaniard hadn’t played a professional match since retiring against Juan Martin del Potro during the semifinals of the US Open.
Nadal will next see action in Acapulco, Mexico, while Djokovic will head to Dubai, U.A.E. for ATP Tour 500 level event in February.
