Novak Djokovic's message to his fans after 10th Australian Open victory | Wide World of Sports

But in the world of sport, 10 is considered to be the magic number. Once thought to be unobtainable, we now know that that isn't the case. And with his victory tonight, this incredible athlete has that perfect score. It's his 10th title at Melbourne Park, and tonight with his win, he also regains the position of the number one player. Good evening, everyone. First of all, I have to say that I'm touched by Stephanos's words. Thank you so much for being so kind and respectful. I appreciate that. I think we both would agree that, of course, on the court, we are fierce competitors and we want to win against each other no matter who is across the net. But that doesn't mean that we shouldn't respect each other. And we acknowledge each other's efforts. So I acknowledge your effort and I congratulate you on an amazing tournament. Tough luck tonight. Great, great battle. I think that this is definitely not your last Grand Slam. You still have a lot, lots of time, much more than me. I'd like to congratulate also to your team, to your family. I know how much time you guys spend into trying to make you a better player and better person on and off the court. You are one of the most professional tennis players that I know on the tour and one of the most interesting guys. I said that two days ago. I still still think you are very interesting. And and I would just like to to finish off. Like by commenting something about Greece and Serbia. And, you know, we are relatively two small countries that don't really have a tennis tradition. You know, we didn't have too many players to look up to players that have reached these heights in a professional tennis. So I think that the message really for any young tennis player around the world who is watching this now and dreaming to be here where Stefanos and I am. Dream big, dare to dream, because everything is possible. Don't let anybody take away the dream. It doesn't matter, it doesn't matter where you're coming from. I actually think that the more disadvantaged childhood you have, the more difficulties and more challenges you have, the stronger you become. So Stefanos and I are the proof of that. And don't really let anybody take away that dream from you. Nurture it. Water it like you water the flowers. Even if you find only one person in this world that will that will accept, embrace and support your dreams. Find that person and dream big because you can make it. What a journey it has been for my family, my team and myself. I don't know where to start and where to finish. I don't take anything for granted. I know you guys are tolerating sometimes the worst sides of my character on and off the court. And and I appreciate the patience and the love and support that you guys are giving me while you're laughing. I don't know if you will ever forgive me all these years for what I've done to you guys, but I have to repeat it over and over again. This trophy is yours as much as it's mine. So thank you from the bottom of my heart. I have to say that this has been one of the most challenging tournaments I've ever played in my life, considering the circumstances. Not playing last year, coming back this year. And I want to thank I want to thank all the people that made me feel welcome, made me feel comfortable to be in Melbourne, to be in Australia. There is there's a reason why I've played my best tennis throughout my career in Australia and on this court in front of legendary Rod Laver. Thank you so much for being present tonight, sir. I I try to try to pinch myself and really live through these moments. And it's a long journey. I know this is also a long talk from my side, but bear with me, guys. I just have to say this because only the team and the family knows what we've been through in the last four or five weeks. And this probably is the I would say biggest victory in my life, considering the circumstances. I would like to I'd like to thank the organization of the tournament, of course, the volunteers. Everyone who is part of such an incredible event, really phenomenal organization day in, day out. Craig has been very helpful to my team and I over the years. And I thank you for always doing your best to make us feel feel at home and feel comfortable. I know that there's been a record breaking crowds this year. And I know there's a lot of people on the square and around the world watching. Thank you so much for making this event one of the one of the best events in the world. Thank you so much and hopefully see you next year.