Novak Djokovic defeated Australia’s Nick Kyrgios on Sunday night to claim a seventh Wimbledon men’s singles title, and 21st grand slam title overall.
There were the usual blow-ups from Kyrgios’ side of the court — at his own entourage and misbehaving fans — and while his level of play was superb in the opening set, he couldn’t maintain the standard needed to dethrone Djokovic across the rest of the match.
The Serbian champion came from a set down to put Kyrgios away 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3).
After his match win, Djokovic said the grass court major “always has been and will be the most special tournament in my heart.”
“I always dreamed of coming here and just playing in this court. Then, of course, realising the childhood dream and winning this trophy. Every single time it gets more and more meaningful and special,” Djokovic said.
Getting ready for his own on-court trophy presentation, Kyrgios changed into his red Nike cap — once again knowingly breaking Wimbledon’s strict all-white dress code — before receiving his runner-up silverware from the Duchess of Cambridge.
During his on-court interview, Kyrgios said he was happy with the result.
“He’s a bit of a god, I’m not going to lie. I thought I played well,” Kyrgios said, before stressing that he hoped to return to Wimbledon again, but wasn’t sure if he would or could.
“I’m so tired honestly. Myself, my team, we’re all exhausted. We’ve played so much tennis. I’m really happy with this result and maybe one day I’ll be here again but I don’t know about that.”
Djokovic, on the other hand, seemed more positive and sent a hopeful message to Kyrgios.
“Nick you will be back, not just to Wimbledon but in [other] finals,” he said. “You showed why you deserve to be [called] one of the best players in the world.”
“I wish you all the best. I really respect you a lot. I think you are a phenomenal tennis player and athlete. You have been hearing all of that for many years, but now everything is starting to come together for you and we will see more in the later stages of grand slams.”
Source: ABC News.
