Novak Djokovic wins his 23rd Grand Slam and a slice of history

History was made at Roland Garros on Sunday as Novak Djokovic won a record 23rd Grand Slam title, the most grand slam wins won by any man who has ever played the sport.

Djokovic, 36, began nervously, trailing 3-0 and 4-2 in the first set, with the weight of the occasion seemingly heavy on his shoulders, his feet unusually off balance. But as so often in his career, Djokovic dug himself out of trouble and then pulled away in familiar style to win 7-6 (1), 6-3, 7-5.

As Ruud’s final forehand landed wide, Djokovic fell to the clay and lay flat on his back, soaking in the applause of the crowd. After taking the congratulations from Ruud he sat for several seconds, before going into the crowd to celebrate with his family and support team, emerging with a jacket with “23” emblazoned on it.

“It’s no coincidence that I should win my 23rd Grand Slam title here. This has been the hardest tournament for me to win throughout my career,” Djokovic said after. “I am beyond fortunate in my life to win 23 Grand Slams. It’s an incredible feeling.”

Djokovic is the oldest man to win the French Open, and his third Roland Garros crown moves him ahead of Rafel Nadal to 23 Grand Slams, level with Serena Williams and one behind all-time leader Margaret Court, whose career spanned the amateur and professional eras. He is now halfway to the coveted calendar-year Grand Slam. Oh, and Monday, he will return to the No 1 ranking on the ATP Tour.

In 2009, when Roger Fedrer overtook Pete Sampras’ then-record of 14 Grand Slams, it seemed like the chance of anyone else getting close was slim. What Djokovic has done in reaching 23 — and counting — is unparalleled in the men’s game. Providing he stays fit and motivated, he has every chance of setting a record that will never be broken.

(ESPN)