Novak Djokovic reached another milestone in his legendary career after coming from behind to beat Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz 5-7 7-6 (7-2) 7-6 (7-2) in the Geneva Open final, securing his 100th ATP singles title.
The Serbian star becomes just the third man in the Open era to reach the century mark, following in the footsteps of Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer. At 38, Djokovic had previously won all seven of his meetings with Hurkacz, but this encounter proved far more demanding as he battled from a break down in the final set to seal victory after three hours and eight minutes on court.
Celebrations followed immediately, with Djokovic’s children running onto the court to embrace their father while his wife Jelena looked on from the stands.
“I had to work for it, that’s for sure,” Djokovic said post-match. “Hubi was probably closer to the victory the entire match than I was. An incredible match with a full stadium, a beautiful atmosphere. I’m just grateful to clinch the 100th here.”
The win gives Djokovic valuable clay-court momentum ahead of the French Open, which begins on Sunday. Arriving in Geneva winless on clay this season, the world number one had lost his opening matches in four of his previous five tournaments and endured a difficult year, which included a semi-final exit in the Australian Open and a title-chasing loss to Jakub Mensik in Miami.
His clay-court campaign had also been marred by first-round exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid and a withdrawal from the Italian Open. The split with coach Andy Murray added to the turbulence, but a wildcard entry into Geneva provided the breakthrough he needed.
Throughout the final, Hurkacz — returning to form after a knee injury sustained at Wimbledon last year — gave Djokovic a tough contest with powerful serving and resilient play. Djokovic had early chances to break in the first set at 2-2 but was denied by timely aces from the Pole. The set eventually slipped away after a net cord and a double fault from Djokovic handed Hurkacz the break.
Despite persistent pressure from Djokovic in the second set, Hurkacz held firm, taking nearly every service game to deuce but escaping with clutch serves. The Serb finally found his rhythm in the tie-break to level the match, only to be broken again early in the third.
Serving games passed swiftly until Hurkacz faltered at 4-3, allowing Djokovic to break back. The top seed’s composure then shone through in the decisive tie-break, which he dominated before sealing victory with an ace.
After the match, the two players shared a heartfelt hug at the net. Hurkacz, visibly emotional, draped a towel over his head while Djokovic saluted the crowd that had largely rallied behind him throughout the contest.
Djokovic will now head to Roland Garros to begin his campaign for a record 25th Grand Slam title, his confidence restored after a dramatic and emotional triumph in Geneva.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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