Novak Djokovic Wins His 23rd Grand Slam Title by Beating Casper Ruud in the French Open Final
Novak Djokovic had always been vocal about his goal to surpass the achievements of his fellow tennis legends, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. His drive and inspiration came from the desire to claim the biggest titles on the grandest stages in his sport. Finally, he stands alone, having surpassed every man who has ever wielded a racket.
In the French Open final, Djokovic showcased his patience as he waited for the half-hour or so it took to find his rhythm. Despite a shaky start in the thick, humid air under foreboding clouds, he quickly imposed himself on the opponent, Casper Ruud, at Court Philippe Chatrier. Ruud never stood a serious chance thereafter.
With a convincing 7-6 (1), 6-3, 7-5 victory over Ruud, Djokovic secured his 23rd Grand Slam singles championship, breaking the tie with Nadal and establishing a three-title lead over the retired Federer. The match lasted 3 hours and 13 minutes, and Djokovic’s dominance was evident throughout.
This victory adds to Djokovic’s French Open titles in 2016 and 2021, making him the only male player to have won at least three titles in each major tournament. His Grand Slam collection now includes 10 trophies from the Australian Open, seven from Wimbledon, and three from the U.S. Open.
Acknowledging the historical significance of the moment, Djokovic expressed his focus on preparing for the match, albeit with the awareness of the impending milestone. He emphasized the importance of not underestimating any match and the satisfaction of crossing the finish line to claim a historic trophy.
It is worth noting that Djokovic is now halfway to achieving a calendar-year Grand Slam, a feat that has not been accomplished by any male player since Rod Laver in 1969. Djokovic came close in 2021, winning the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon but falling short in the U.S. Open final against Daniil Medvedev.
Djokovic’s pursuit of the calendar-year Grand Slam will continue at Wimbledon, which begins on July 3 at the All England Club. His coach, Goran Ivanisevic, highlighted Djokovic’s exceptional ability to elevate his performance during Grand Slam tournaments.
Looking back at Djokovic’s career, it is remarkable to see the progress he has made. In 2011, Federer had 16 Grand Slam titles, Nadal had nine, and Djokovic had only one. Now, Djokovic has surpassed them both, having won 11 out of the last 20 Grand Slam tournaments.
Djokovic’s journey to 23 Grand Slam titles has not been without challenges. He missed two majors during this period due to his refusal to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Despite these setbacks, he has proven his resilience and determination on the court.
Not only does Djokovic’s 23rd Grand Slam title establish a new record for men, but it also equals Serena Williams’ record in the Open era. Margaret Court holds the all-time record of 24 Slam trophies, some of which were won during the amateur era.
At 36 years and 20 days old, Djokovic became the oldest singles champion at Roland Garros, known for its grueling nature due to the slow red clay surface. Nadal, who won his 22nd major at the French Open the previous year, has been recovering from a hip injury and underwent arthroscopic surgery in June.
Congratulating Djokovic on his achievement, Nadal acknowledged the monumental accomplishment of reaching 23 Grand Slam titles, a feat that seemed impossible just a few years ago.
