Novak Djokovic and Tallon Griekspoor are the first ATP title winners in 2023. The Dutchman clinched his first ATP crown after overcoming one of the weakest draws of the season. On the other hand, Novak defeated two top-20 opponents and prevailed over an inspired Sebastian Korda in the title clash after more than three hours to win his 92nd ATP crown.
Despite having much tougher opponents, Djokovic was paid less than Griekspoor for winning Pune! Of course, he has nothing to do with the players themselves (the Adelaide organizers had to prepare the appearance fee for Djokovic and Medvedev), but it still seems wrong in many ways.
Tallon bested his top-20 rival Marin Cilic without ever setting foot on the court and beat four opponents outside the top-55 to lift the trophy. On the other hand, Djokovic knocked down two French rivals to reach the Adelaide quarterfinals.
He faced world number 18 Denis Shapovalov and defeated him in straight sets to set up a semifinal battle with world number 7 Daniil Medvedev. Djokovic survived injury and beat the Russian in straight sets to advance to the final.
Novak had to give his 120% to clinch the trophy, saving a match point in a thrilling 6-7, 7-6, 6-4 win over Sebastian Korda. The match lasted three hours and nine minutes, and the two rivals gave their all from start to finish.
They only gave up three breaks and remained even until the end of the last set. They needed an hour and 13 minutes to complete the first set, which was a roller coaster. Sebastian broke in the ninth game and served for the set in the next.
The young tennis player created three set points on his serve in the tenth game and squandered them all, including a routine backhand into the net in the third. Djokovic broke again after his opponent’s backhand error and continued the battle.
Nole Djokovic is very motivated
Novak Djokovic shared his thoughts on the players he would love to play with. «Go, that is difficult. I have to choose more than one. Ibrahimovic is a dear friend of mine, so I would love to play with him and, obviously, Messi, Ronaldo, obviously and the older ones, Batistuta,» he said. He asserted a 35-year-old man.
The nine-time Australian Open champion went on to express that he would likely play on the left side of the soccer field. «Left side, probably left forward. Usually I’m left-footed so just trying to help someone in the box I guess,» added the 35-year-old.
