Novak Djokovic Makes History As He Wins 3rd French Open, And Claims 23rd Men's Record Grand Slam Title.

Novak Djokovic once again showed his greatness by overcoming a sticky start to win a men's record 23rd Grand Slam title with victory over Norway's Casper Ruud in the 2023 French Open final on Sunday.

Since inserting himself into the Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal duopoly, Djokovic has been playing catch-up, but victory over Ruud sees him become the most successful men’s singles player ever.

The Serbian was far from his best in the initial stages, starting poorly, but his quality in a first-set tie-break laid the platform as he fought back to defeat Casper Ruud  7-6 (7-1) 6-3 7-5 on Court Philippe-Chatrier.

By beating the 24-year-old Norwegian tennis player Ruud, who is contesting his third Major final and seeking his first big title, Djokovic won his third French Open title and also made it past Rafael Nadal on the all-time Grand Slam record list. 

He now becomes the first man ever to win each of the four major Grand Slam tournaments (Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and US Open), at least three times, which is a measure of his all-round greatness.

By 2011, Djokovic had won every Grand Slam at least once outside the French Open.

The 36-year-old, finally won his first French Open title in 2016 and completed a Career Grand Slam. Djokovic, who won his second French Open title in 2021, feels it's "not a coincidence" that he set history at Roland Garros.

Victory on the Paris clay moves Djokovic who has now equalled Serena Williams in terms of Grand Slam titles total, with only record-holder Margaret Court standing in front of him with 24 Grand Slam titles.

Though, he could equal Margaret Court's all-time singles mark at Wimbledon next month.

Following the great achievement, Djokovic couldn't hide his happiness, as he lay flat on his back on the clay before climbing up to his player box to hug all his team, including his children, Stefan and Tara.

The World No.3 called himself "beyond fortunate in my life to win 23 times Grand Slams. It's an incredible incredible feeling," 

"I was a seven-year-old dreaming I could win Wimbledon one day and become number one in the world. I'm beyond grateful and and blessed to be standing here... Said Djokovic.

"I felt I had the power to create my own destiny. I want to say to every young person if you want a better future, you can create it.

"Obviously, Grand Slam is a Grand Slam. Four biggest tournaments that we have in the history of our sports and every single player dreams of being in this stage and winning the trophy at least once in their career."

Speaking on overtaking Nadal in Slam race in Paris, Djokovic said;

“It's not a coincidence that I've won 23rd Grand Slam title in Paris because this tournament is very much the hardest tournament to win for me all my career. Lots of reasons, on court and off court. And I have to say that I am very proud and happy to be here on this very special court.”

Minutes after Djokovic had won, Rafael Nadal paid tribute to his long-time rival with a congratulatory message via his official Twitter account;

"Many congrats on this amazing achievement @DjokerNole. 23 is a number that just a few years back was impossible to think about, and you made it! Enjoy it with your family and team!" the Spaniard wrote.

Djokovic further praised his opponent, saying: "Casper, thank you for your nice words. You are one of the best persons on the tour. I really feel that in today's world it's important to note when someone has the right life values. You deserve great respect.

"I'm sorry for the result today. For sure it's not the best way to finish for you but you've had an incredible couple of years here. I wish you to win against anybody except me."

This is the third time (2016, 2021, 2023) Djokovic has won the first two Grand Slams to start the season.

He will attempt to win the first three Grand Slam titles at Wimbledon for the second time (2021).

He is set to take some time to recover and then switch his focus on Wimbledon which is a month away. This summer, Djokovic will be the top favorite to win it all at The All England Club, hoping to defend his Wimbledon title and aiming to tie Roger Federer's record of eight titles at The Championships.

Absolute greatness! pic.twitter.com/p1HYW5nAGk

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) June 11, 2023

 All-time Grand Slam singles titles:

• 24 Margaret Court

• 23 Novak Djokovic

• 23 Serena Williams

• 22 Rafael Nadal

• 22 Steffi Graf

• 20 Roger Federer