By: Associate Editor Alec Dent
With his win in Melbourne this past week, Novak Djokovic broke his own record for the most Australian Open titles in the Open Era, while tying Rod Emerson’s record for the most titles at the slam Down Under. Djokovic has started the season undefeated, already taking home the title in Doha, defeating longtime rival Rafael Nadal in the final. Djokovic’s sixth Australian Open title comes on the tail of one of tennis’ greatest seasons, which saw the world number one reach all four grand slam finals, winning three of them in the process. For all his success, Djokovic has one glaring hole in his resume, his lack of a French Open title. Though there still remain many tournaments between now and the second major of the year, Djokovic’s mind is undoubtedly on conquering the clay courts of Paris.
Djokovic’s opponent as he won his eleventh grand slam title on Sunday was Andy Murray, who broke a record of his own. Murray lost his fifth Australian Open final, the most of any player who has not also won the title. Murray also found himself one half of the first pair of brothers to be in the singles and doubles final of a grand slam in the Open Era. His older brother, Jamie Murray, has been a doubles specialist throughout his career, and recently paired with Andy to take home the Davis Cup title for Great Britain. The elder Murray found himself luckier, taking home the doubles trophy with partner Bruno Soares.