Djokovic triumphs in Athens but misses Turin showdown

Serbian legend Novak Djokovic added another golden chapter to his storied career, capturing his 101st ATP title with a thrilling three-set victory over Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti in the Athens Open final on Sunday. The 38-year-old battled through pain and exhaustion to claim a 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 win in a gripping contest that lasted over three hours.

Despite the victory, Djokovic later announced his withdrawal from the upcoming ATP Finals in Turin due to a lingering shoulder injury. “I was really looking forward to competing in Turin, but after today’s final, I need to withdraw due to an ongoing injury,” Djokovic wrote on Instagram, expressing regret to fans and promising to return soon.

Wearing a visible shoulder strap during the match, Djokovic displayed trademark grit to overcome Musetti in front of a packed Athens crowd. The win also marked his 72nd tour-level hard-court title and saw him equal Roger Federer’s record of 18 ATP Finals qualifications.

“It was an incredible battle three hours of a gruelling match,” Djokovic said. “It could have gone either way, so congrats to Lorenzo for an amazing performance. I’m proud of how I fought through.”

For Musetti, the loss was another heartbreak. The 22-year-old Italian has now lost six consecutive ATP finals, his last titles coming in Hamburg and Naples in 2022.

“Novak, you keep proving that age is just a number,” Musetti said graciously. “Every time I play you, it’s a lesson.”

The Athens Open final was a display of resilience, respect, and relentless pursuit of excellence,a fitting stage for Djokovic’s enduring greatness.