Djokovic downs Medvedev to claim record sixth Paris Masters title

Tuesday, 9 November 2021 00:44 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

PARIS (Reuters): Novak Djokovic won a record-extending sixth Paris Masters title and a record 37th premium title by avenging his US Open final defeat against Russian Daniil Medvedev with a 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 victory in Sunday’s showpiece match.

The Serbian, who is guaranteed to finish the year as world number one for a record seventh time, beating Pete Sampras’s mark, needed time to break Medvedev’s sturdy defence, but was unstoppable once he found his opening.

Djokovic was looking to avoid ending a season without a Masters title for the first time since 2017 and kept his focus throughout to accomplish his mission.

World number two Medvedev was overwhelmed in the third set and bowed out of the contest on the first match point when Djokovic unleashed a superb forehand winner down the line.

“I consider myself a student of the sport, and I really respect and admire all of the past champions that paved the way for me, and all the generations that are playing tennis right now,” said Djokovic.

“We are enjoying the benefits of this game in every sense because of the past champions that made the tour the way it is today.”