Novak Djokovic has etched his name even deeper into tennis history, becoming only the third man to win 100 ATP titles following a dramatic three-set victory over Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz in the Geneva Open final on Saturday. The Serbian star, playing his first tournament since splitting with former coach Andy Murray, overcame a slow start to defeat Hurkacz 5-7, 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/2) in a gripping contest that lasted over three hours.
The win sees Djokovic join the elite company of Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer as the only male players to reach a century of tour-level titles. It also marked his first trophy since securing his maiden Olympic gold medal last summer, a testament to his enduring excellence at age 38. Speaking after the match, Djokovic acknowledged the difficulty of the encounter, crediting Hurkacz’s performance and expressing gratitude for pulling through in key moments. “He was probably closer to the victory the entire match than me,” Djokovic admitted. “A few points decide it, an incredible match… and I’m delighted to clinch the 100 here.”
Hurkacz, ranked 31st and still chasing his first title since April 2024, pushed the three-time French Open champion to the brink. He claimed the first set after Djokovic double-faulted on set point. In the second set, Hurkacz remained composed, fending off break points and maintaining pressure, but Djokovic found his rhythm in the tie-break to level the match.
The final set was a rollercoaster. Djokovic stumbled early, losing his opening service game and allowing Hurkacz to build momentum with a series of commanding holds. However, the Pole faltered at 4-3, committing two unforced errors and a double-fault that allowed Djokovic back into the contest. A nervy final game led to another tie-break, where Hurkacz once again lost composure, and Djokovic capitalized with clinical precision, sealing the victory with an ace.
The Geneva triumph is a timely boost for Djokovic, who had struggled on clay earlier this season with defeats to Alejandro Tabilo and Matteo Arnaldi. Seeking form ahead of the French Open, he opted for the lower-profile Swiss tournament and was rewarded with a landmark win. As he prepares for his Roland Garros opener against American Mackenzie McDonald, Djokovic now stands just one major title away from a record-extending 25th Grand Slam singles crown.
Hurkacz, though disappointed, was gracious in defeat. “It’s really inspiring how you conduct yourself on and off the court,” he told Djokovic during the trophy ceremony.
Saturday’s result underscores Djokovic’s unparalleled consistency and resilience, as he becomes the first man to claim ATP titles across 20 consecutive seasons. With his sights now firmly set on Paris, the tennis world watches to see if another historic chapter is about to be written.
