Novak Djokovic reveals the toughest match he’s ever played in his career

Novak Djokovic, the record holder for most Grand Slam titles in men’s tennis history with 24, has participated in countless iconic matches. Among these, he recalls one final as the most grueling of his career.

While the Serbian legend has played unforgettable matches like his 2019 Wimbledon victory over Roger Federer—where he triumphed in an epic 7-6, 1-6, 7-6, 4-6, 13-12 final—this was not the match he deemed his toughest.

In a interview with the official YouTube channel of the Australian Open, Djokovic named the 2012 Australian Open final against Rafael Nadal as the most physically taxing match of his career. That match, lasting five hours and 53 minutes, remains the longest Grand Slam final in history.

“I mean, we both were ready for a big battle, the longest-ever Grand Slam final,” Djokovic recalled. “This was one of the longest rallies of the match; I think I missed the backhand and just collapsed on the court. Oh my god. I don’t know what was happening in the stands, honestly. I was just trying to get an extra breath”.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia celebrates winning championship point against Rafael Nadal in the 2012 Australian Open final. (Ryan Pierse-Pool/Getty Images)

“These rallies with Rafa [Nadal], I mean, look, five hours and 23 minutes at this point. That was definitely the most physically draining and demanding match that I’ve ever played in my career,” he added.

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The Serbian also emphasized the significance of this marathon match. “This one definitely stands out as the longest one that we ever played against each other; it was the longest Grand Slam final,” Djokovic explained.

The challenge of facing Nadal

There has never been another player quite like Nadal, whose physicality and intensity on the court have left an indelible mark on the sport. Djokovic reflected on how difficult it was to face the 22-time Grand Slam champion.

“I can recall maybe out of 60-plus times that we faced each other, maybe a few matches that were really one-sided,” Djokovic noted. “Just pure physicality with him. That’s what he brought to the table every single match”.

Djokovic explained that defeating Nadal required extraordinary preparation and endurance. “You knew that if you wanted to beat him, you’re going to have to be fresh for five hours, to run and run, just outrun him,” he said. “He’s definitely the player that has affected my career the most”.