Novak Djokovic defeated Casper Ruud to claim an historic 23rd Grand Slam title at the French Open in Paris on Sunday, June 11.

Djokovic’s 7-6 (7-1) 6-3 7-5 victory over Ruud draws him level with Serena Williams and he could equal Margaret Court’s all-time singles mark at Wimbledon next month.

The Serbian, meanwhile, also becomes the first man ever to win at least three Grand Slam titles at all the major tournaments – a measure of his all-round greatness.

Djokovic lay flat on his back on the clay before climbing up to his player box to hug all his team, including his children, Stefan and Tara.

A message of congratulations quickly arrived from Rafael Nadal, who tweeted: “Many congrats on this amazing achievement @DjokerNole. 23 is a number that just a few years back was impossible to think about, and you made it! Enjoy it with your family and team!”

Djokovic, wearing a jacket bearing the number 23, shared a hug with 1983 champion Noah before hosting the Coupe des Mousquetaires high for a third time.

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The 36-year-old praised his opponent, saying: “Casper, thank you for your nice words. You are one of the best persons on the tour. I really feel that in today’s world it’s important to note when someone has the right life values. You deserve great respect.

“I’m sorry for the result today. For sure it’s not the best way to finish for you but you’ve had an incredible couple of years here. I wish you to win against anybody except me.”

Concluding his speech, Djokovic said: “I was a seven-year-old dreaming of winning Wimbledon one day. I’m beyond grateful and blessed to be standing here with so many achievements.

“I felt I had the power to create my own destiny. I want to send a message out there to every young person. If you want a better future, you’ll create it.”

Djokovic won his first Grand Slam title 15 years ago at the Australian Open in Melbourne, which he went on to win nine more times. He has collected seven at Wimbledon, three at the US Open, and now three at the French Open.

Victory over Ruud means Djokovic will return to the world number one ranking for an extraordinary 388th week, replacing 20-year-old Carlos Alcaraz, whom the bookmakers had imprudently labelled the hot favourite ahead of their semi-final on Friday.

The Star