Novak Djokovic has won his seventh Wimbledon title after beating Nick Kyrgios in an engrossing final of the men’s singles tournament.
The Serbian successfully defended the title in four sets, winning 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (3).
Amid a difficult season, Djokovic today claimed his 21st Grand Slam title.
“I lost words for what this tournament, for what this trophy means to me, to my team, to my family,” the 35 year-old said afterwards.
“It always has been and will be the most special tournament in my heart.”
Realising his childhood dream of winning that trophy “gets more and more meaningful and special,” each time, Djokovic added.
During the match Kyrgios began to lose his cool as the scoreboard turned in Djokovic’s favour, earning a code violation for swearing.
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He complained bitterly to the umpire about a “drunk” woman in the crowd, whom he claimed was calling out to him during play.
Djokovic, who won the three previous tournaments at SW19, remained calm as his Australian opponent shouted at his team and the umpire.
Collecting the runners-up trophy from the Duchess of Cambridge, Kyrgios said: “He’s a bit of a god. I thought I played well.
“To all the ball kids, umpires – I know we have a tough relationship – thank you for putting up with me. And the crowd have been amazing,” Kyrgios added.
The last fortnight has been a rollercoaster ride for the 27 year-old, which has also brought the news he is facing a charge for assaulting his former girlfriend.
This tournament is the first time the unseeded player had got beyond the quarter-finals at a Grand Slam.
Kate, the Duke of Cambridge and their son Prince George had been watching in the crowd on Centre Court.
Djokovic told his opponent: “You’ll be back. Not just Wimbledon but in finals, in finals.
“I know it’s tough to find… consolation words after a tough loss like this, but… you showed why you deserve to be one of the best players in the world,” he said.
Djokovic has now won seven of the last 11 titles at the All England Club, equalling Pete Sampras’ tally, and falling just one short of Roger Federer’s men’s singles record here and Rafael Nadal’s overall mark.
