Novak Djokovic beat Casper Rudd on Sunday to win his 6th ATP Finals, tying a record held by Roger Federer.
Djokovic won 7-5, 6-3 to add the 2022 title to his previous triumphs at the season-ending championships in 2008, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015.
The 35-year-old Djokovic, who had lost his two previous finals at the event, raised his arms out and smiled broadly after sealing the match with an ace.
“Seven years, it’s been a long time,” Djokovic said afterwards.“You know, at the same time, the fact that I waited seven years makes this victory even sweeter, and even bigger.”
Djokovic became the oldest champion at the prestigious year-end tournament and also earned the largest payday in tennis history as he walked away with $4.7 million for claiming the ATP Finals trophy undefeated.
“It’s the finals—usually these matches are decided on very small margins, and one break was enough in both sets,” Djokovic said.
“I knew Casper was playing really well coming into this match. I think we both served very well. I think in some decisive moments, like in that 12th game of the first set, I just managed to put a few returns back in play, make him run, make him play. I was really pleased with the way I was playing from the back of the court. With my forehand I was looking to be very aggressive, and it worked great.
“I’m really pleased with the performance.”
