Novak Djokovic has once again etched his name into tennis history, claiming his 101st ATP singles title at the Hellenic Championship in Athens on November 8, 2025. With this victory, the Serbian legend surpassed Roger Federer’s record for the most hard-court titles in men’s tennis, securing his 72nd career win on the surface. At 38 years and five months, Djokovic also became the oldest ATP champion since Ken Rosewall in 1977.
Historic Win in Athens
Djokovic defeated Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti in a grueling three-set final: 4–6, 6–3, 7–5. The match lasted nearly three hours and showcased Djokovic’s trademark resilience, tactical brilliance, and mental fortitude. Musetti started strong, taking the first set with aggressive groundstrokes, but Djokovic adapted quickly, dominating the second and clinching the third in a tense finish.
| Match Stats | Djokovic | Musetti |
|---|---|---|
| Aces | 9 | 6 |
| Double Faults | 2 | 4 |
| First Serve % | 67% | 64% |
| Break Points Converted | 5/9 | 3/8 |
| Total Points Won | 112 | 104 |
Record-Breaking Milestones
- 101st career ATP title, joining Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer in the elite 100-title club.
- 72nd hard-court title, surpassing Federer’s previous record of 71.
- Oldest ATP champion since Ken Rosewall (age 43) in 1977.
Djokovic’s win in Athens also indirectly impacted the ATP Finals lineup. Musetti’s loss meant Felix Auger-Aliassime secured the final spot in Turin.
Djokovic Withdraws from ATP Finals
Despite his triumph, Djokovic announced his withdrawal from the ATP Finals due to a shoulder injury sustained during the Athens final. This marks his second consecutive withdrawal from the season-ending event, raising questions about his long-term fitness and scheduling strategy.
| Year | ATP Titles | Grand Slams | Hard-Court Titles | Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 36 |
| 2024 | 6 | 1 | 4 | 37 |
| 2025 | 7 | 1 | 5 | 38 |
Reaction from the Tennis World
Players, analysts, and fans have hailed Djokovic’s achievement as a testament to his longevity and unmatched consistency. His ability to compete at the highest level well into his late 30s has redefined expectations in men’s tennis.
Quotes from the tennis community:
- “Novak’s mental strength is unparalleled. He’s rewriting the rules of aging in sport.” – Former coach Boris Becker
- “Surpassing Federer’s hard-court record is monumental. It speaks volumes about his adaptability.” – ESPN analyst Patrick McEnroe
Comparative Analysis: Big Three Hard-Court Titles
| Player | Hard-Court Titles | Total ATP Titles | Grand Slams |
|---|---|---|---|
| Novak Djokovic | 72 | 101 | 24 |
| Roger Federer | 71 | 103 | 20 |
| Rafael Nadal | 25 | 92 | 22 |
Djokovic’s dominance on hard courts has been a cornerstone of his career, with wins across all major ATP events including the Australian Open, US Open, and multiple Masters 1000 tournaments.
Legacy and Future Outlook
With 101 titles and counting, Djokovic is now eyeing Connors’ all-time record of 109 ATP titles. His withdrawal from the ATP Finals may be a strategic move to preserve fitness for the 2026 season, where he is expected to target Grand Slam glory and further cement his legacy.
Conclusion
Novak Djokovic’s victory in Athens is more than just another title—it’s a historic milestone that redefines greatness in tennis. By surpassing Federer’s hard-court record and joining the 100-title club, Djokovic has solidified his place among the sport’s immortals. As he steps away from the ATP Finals, the tennis world watches with admiration and anticipation for what comes next.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available match data and official statements. Readers are advised to follow ATP and player updates for the latest developments.
