Djokovic Seals Historic 101st Title in Athens Thriller
In a dramatic final that stretched for over three hours, Novak Djokovic captured the 101st ATP Tour title of his legendary career by winning the Athens Open. The Serbian superstar overcame a determined challenge from Italy's Lorenzo Musetti, eventually triumphing with a scoreline of 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 to lift the trophy.
Musetti's ATP Finals Dream Dashed
The victory had significant consequences for his opponent. Lorenzo Musetti needed to win the Athens Open to secure the final qualifying spot for the prestigious season-ending ATP Finals in Turin. Djokovic's win means that Felix Auger-Aliassime holds onto that last place, with Musetti now positioned as the first alternate.
The Italian's only chance to compete in Turin now rests on a potential withdrawal from the tournament by Djokovic himself. The 38-year-old Serbian is scheduled to play his first match at the ATP Finals on Monday, with the tournament kicking off on Sunday. Djokovic made no mention of his plans for the Finals during his on-court interview or the trophy ceremony, though he did share a light-hearted moment with Musetti at the net after his hard-fought victory.
Chasing History in the Record Books
This victory marks Djokovic's second title of the season, following his 100th career win at the Geneva Open back in May. This milestone puts him within striking distance of another legendary record. Djokovic is now just two titles behind the great Roger Federer, who retired with 103 career trophies.
The achievement further cements his status among the sport's absolute elite. In the Open era, only three men have ever surpassed the 100-title mark. The overall men's record is still held by the American Jimmy Connors, who amassed an incredible 109 singles titles during his career.
The win in Athens was particularly poignant for Djokovic, who relocated to Greece with his family earlier this year, making it his first title victory in his new home nation.
