The world tennis number one Novak Djokovic has successfully defended his Australian Open title, outslugging Rafael Nadal in an enthrailling five setter lasting just under six hours, the longest grand slam final in history.
The 24 year old Serb beat Nadal 5-7 6-4 6-2 6-7 7-5 in five hours and 53 minutes giving him his fifth grand slam title and third Australian Open championship.
Djokovic looked like wrapping up the title in four sets, but the tenacious Nadal saved three break points in the 8th game to win it in a tiebreaker and get the crowd behind him.
At the presentation Djokovic apologised to the crowd for keeping them up until nearly 2am local time, the match having started at 8pm.
Nadal was gracious in defeat, congratulating Djokovic and his fantastic team, after a very special match he'll never forget, even as the loser.
