Djokovic equals record with sixth Australian Open win

NOVAK Djokovic claimed a record-equalling sixth Australian Open title last night with his fourth victory over Andy Murray in the final at Melbourne Park.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia kisses his trophy after defeating Andy Murray of Britain in the men's singles final at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016. Picture: AP Photo - Rafiq Maqbool

NOVAK Djokovic claimed a record-equalling sixth Australian Open title last night with his fourth victory over Andy Murray in the final at Melbourne Park.

The world No. 1 and defending champion beat the Scot 6-1 7-5 7-6 (3) in 2 hours 53 minutes.

Djokovic joins Australia's Roy Emerson with six Norman Brookes Challenge Cup trophies.

Emerson won his home major title between 1961 and 1967, an achievement that went unmatched in the 49 years since.

"It is an incredible feeling, especially because I managed to make history tonight and equal Roy Emerson 's record of six Australian Opens," Djokovic told Channel 7.

"That is why of course this trophy is even more unique for me tonight."

The 28-year-old Serbian also claimed his 11th major title to draw level with Rod Laver and Bjorn Borg on the all-time list - and six shy of Roger Federer's record of 17.

Federer, who lost to Djokovic in this year's semi-final, last won a major at 2012 Wimbledon as a 30-year-old.

Djokovic has won four of the last five major titles with just the French title missing from his trophy cabinet.

"No doubt I am playing the tennis of my life the last 15 months and the results are showing that. I am trying to keep it up. I don't want to think how far it can go all where my boundaries are," he said.

"Of course, I do prepare myself always to perform my best in a Grand Slam and the fight for these trophies, as anybody else."

Djokovic improved his record over the world No. 2 to 4-2 in major finals. He also defeated Murray in the Australian Open final in 2011, 2013 and 2015.

A sentimental favourite but still a bridesmaid in Melbourne, Murray is the first player to lose the final of the same major five times, having also lost to Federer in 2010.

Murray, who stayed in the tournament despite his wife Kim due to give birth to their first child, was in familiar territory on the podium but looking for the exit.

"I feel like I have been here before," he quipped before the routine round of thanks and then switching his attention to his wife.

"To my wife Kim, who I am sure is going to be watching back home - you have been a legend the last two weeks. Thank you so much for all of your support. I will be on the next flight home."
 
ALL-TIME major men's singles titles

• 17 Roger Federer (17-10 in finals)
• 14 Pete Sampras (14-4)
• 14 Rafael Nadal (14-6)
• 12 Roy Emerson (12-3)
• 11 Bjorn Borg (11-5)
• 11 Rod Laver (11-6)
• 11 Novak Djokovic (11-8)