Novak Djokovic underlined his recent dominance at Wimbledon with a composed and controlled fightback against Australia’s Nick Kyrgios to win a fourth consecutive men’s singles title.
Serbia’s Djokovic, 35, lost the first set after some incredible serving from Kyrgios, but ended up winning 4-6 6-3 6-4 7-6 (7-3) on Centre Court.
It is Djokovic’s seventh SW19 men’s title and only Roger Federer has more.
Victory also moved him one behind Rafael Nadal’s record 22 men’s majors.
Top seed Djokovic made a slower start than his 27-year-old opponent, who initially seemed unnerved by playing in his first Grand Slam singles final.
But the Serb did not lose belief as he showed all of his experience and nous to turn the match around.
Losing his winning position began to irritate Kyrgios, who is known for his fiery temperament as well as his exciting tennis.
While Kyrgios increasingly remonstrated with his support team, Djokovic remained cool in the heat of the battle on a scorching Centre Court.
After clinching victory with his third match point, Djokovic dropped to his haunches and picked a blade of the Centre Court grass to eat in what has now become a customary celebration.
“He’s a bit of a god, I’m not going to lie. I thought I played well,” Kyrgios said as he congratulated Djokovic.
In his on-court victory speech, Djokovic told Kyrgios he would “be back” in a major final.
“It is tough to find consolation words at a moment like this but you showed why you are one of the best players in the world,” he said.
“I wish you all the best. I respect you a lot and you are a phenomenal talent.
“I never thought I would say so many nice things about you! Ok, it’s official: it is a bromance.”
😘#Wimbledon | #CentreCourt100 | @DjokerNole pic.twitter.com/Y6K5hPs58K
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 10, 2022