The ATP tennis returned to Athens last week. In the first tournament in this country, Novak Djokovic conquered the ATP 250 Athens event, lifting his 101st ATP title and extending his incredible legacy.
The Serb secured his second trophy of the season, finishing the season on a high note and moving closer to Roger Federer's 103 ATP crowns. Unlike his brothers, the home hero, Stefanos Tsitsipas, could not compete in Athens due to ongoing back issues.
However, the Greek watched the matches and even joined Djokovic and Lorenzo Musetti during the trophy ceremony. Stefanos praised Novak's achievement and commented on their picture with playful words: 'Meet your new history teacher.'
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Djokovic skipped the Paris Masters and entered the ATP 250 event in Athens a week later instead. The Serb has been living in Greece since September, and he could not miss the home event (his brother is the tournament director) despite shoulder issues.
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The veteran defeated Alejandro Tabilo for the first time in a career and backed the win with another against Nuno Borges to reach the semi-final. Novak beat Yannick Hanfmann for a place in his 144th ATP final.
The 38-year-old met Lorenzo Musetti in the title clash, with the Italian seeking his spot at the ATP Finals. After nearly three hours, Djokovic prevailed 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 for his 101st ATP title, moving two behind Roger Federer.
Novak gave everything in front of the partisan crowd, including his family, that carried him over the top. The Italian made a promising start and performed well in the opener. He closed it with a single break and moved closer to his first ATP title since 2022.
However, the veteran responded in the second set and forced a decider. They pushed each other to the limits, with Lorenzo refusing to surrender. The Italian extended the duel and almost reached a tie break.
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Still, Novak secured a break in the 11th game and served well at 6-5 to seal the deal and lift his second trophy of the season.
