Djokovic, 35, achieved the fourth title of the season, after Rome (Masters 1000) in May, Wimbledon in July and Tel Aviv a week ago.
“I am happy to play at this level at this point in my career.. You know, I’m 35 years old and not 25. My experience in these types of matches helps me to approach them in the best way”, declared Djokovic after the final.
A return to the highest level is a reality for the former world number one, having disappeared for nearly three months following his Wimbledon title. Djokovic missed the North American tour because of them, not being authorized to enter the United States because he had not been vaccinated against Covid.
“My break increased my hunger for titles. I couldn’t dream of a better restart to the season,” added Djokovic, who has not lost on tour since the Roland-Garros quarter-final match against Rafael Nadal in June.
Former world number one winner of 21 grand slamsalso took advantage of this victory to secure himself at the Turin Masters, from November 13 to 20.
After being two points from elimination in the semifinals against the Russian Daniil Medvedev, forced to leave when they were tied at one set (4-6, 7-6 (8/6)), due to a sore adductor, Djokovic had no problems against Tsitsipas, whom he had defeated in the Roland-Garros final in 2021.
Djokovic was intractable on serve, with only seven points dropped, and an impressive first ball success rate (87%). Incisive in the rest, the Serbian constantly put his rival under pressure and had two breaks in each set, with 3-3 in the first and 2-2 in the second. Enough to finish off Tsitsipas, who made too many mistakes to bother Djokovic.
For the nine-time winner of the Australian Open, the victory obtained in Astana opens up good prospects three weeks before the Bercy tournament in Paris (October 29-November 6), the last Masters 1000 of the season and one month before the Turin Masters. , last meeting of the season.
“I am very motivated with the idea of finishing the season with the rhythm of these last two weeks,” Djokovic said.