‘Djokovic is greatest to hold a racquet’ – Stefanos Tsitsipas anoints Australian Open champion as best ever

Stefanos Tsitsipas has announced Novak Djokovic is tennis’ greatest ever player following his straight sets loss in the Australian Open final on Sunday night.

Djokovic claimed his 22nd Grand Slam title with a 6-3 7-6(4) 7-6(5) scoreline, etching his name further into the history books as an immortal of the sport and equalling Rafael Nadal’s major tally.

Grand Slam title No.2⃣2⃣@DjokerNole • #AusOpen • #AO2023 pic.twitter.com/DuwBEY5qmy

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 29, 2023

Tsitsipas made known of the impact and stature the Serbian has in tennis, personally thanking him for what he’s done in his post-match comments.

“I’d like to – I haven’t done this but I’d like to thank you for pushing our sport so far,” Tsitsipas said.

“I think it deserves a player like you that pushes everyone, every single player, every single individual that’s involved in the sport to the max.

“I admire what you have done for our sport. I think you make me a better player when I am on the court, so thank you.”

The Greek star continued in his admiration of Djokovic, ensuring that everyone tuned in understood the gravity of success from the 35-year-old.

“I would like to say one more time Novak brings the best out in me they’ve been working my whole life for,” Tsitsipas said.

“He’s the one of the greatest in our sport and I think – he’s the greatest that has ever held a tennis racquet for sure.”

Djokovic’s record 10th title at Melbourne Park helps reclaim his spot as world No.1, knocking off young Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz.

The Serbian fell two Grand Slam titles behind Nadal last year, as the Spaniard won the Australian Open and French Open titles, while Djokovic was deported from Australia and lacking match fitness at Roland Garros.

Djokovic has now clawed himself back level by winning at Wimbledon and now in Australia, even though he was also barred from US Open 2022 because of his vaccination status.

Nadal, who is currently injured, will attempt to bounce back the next Slam, his favoured French Open, but Djokovic is likely going to have an opportunity to extend past Nadal with his fitness looking stronger than the Spaniard.