Djokovic beats Nadal in memorable six-hour final

Tuesday, 31 January 2012 16:58

Written by Editor

World number one Novak Djokovic has labelled his historic Australian Open win against close rival Rafael Nadal as the greatest moment of his career. Novak Djokovic outlasted 10-time Grand Slam winner Nadal to clinch an epic five-setter that went  on for five hours 53 minutes.

"It was the longest Grand Slam final of all time. Just hearing that fact makes me cry," said the emotional Serbian. "Wimbledon is right up there because it is the tournament I always wanted to win. But this comes out on top."

Defending champion Djokovic lifted the title for the third time after Sunday's 5-7 6-4 6-2 6-7 (5-7) 7-5 success against second seed Nadal.

Nadal, aiming for his second Australian Open title after beating Roger Federer in the 2009 final, said the epic encounter was one of the toughest matches of his career.

"We played a nice tennis match, it was a very good show and I enjoyed being a part of it," said the Spaniard.

"I wanted to win but I am happy with how I did."
When asked if he would watch a re-run of the match, Nadal joked: "No, it's too long. Just the highlights."