Novak Djokovic beats Stefanos Tsitsipas in Australian Open 2023 final
Serbia's Djokovic started strongly and dug deep in the second set on his way to a 6-3 7-6 (7-4) 7-6 (7-5) victory.
The 35-year-old, who draws level with Rafael Nadal in major wins, will return to the world number one ranking.
Greece's Tsitsipas, 24, continues his wait for a first Grand Slam triumph.
"It's been a long journey, but a very special one," said Djokovic, who only dropped one set during the tournament.
"I played some of my best tennis, honestly, in Australian Open. The fourth round, quarter-final, semi-finals, just comfortable on the court, hitting the ball great."
Tsitsipas lost to Djokovic in his first major final at the 2021 French Open after relinquishing a two-set lead, but, this time in Melbourne, he was always chasing the match.
In the few precious opportunities he had to threaten Djokovic - notably a set point to level the match at one set all - the third seed could not take them.
Djokovic has not lost at Melbourne Park since 2018 - a streak spanning a record 28 matches in the men's singles.
He has regained the crown, which he was unable to defend last year after being deported from Australiafollowing a row over his Covid-19 vaccination status.
Tsitsipas showed resilience to save two championship points but Djokovic took his third chance - this time on his own serve - when his opponent sliced a forehand long after a short rally.
Djokovic turned to his team and family members - including mother Dijana, although father Srdjan did not appear to be present - standing motionless before pointing to his head and his heart.
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