Novak Djokovic has described his Wimbledon final win over Roger Federer as the “most special” of his career.
The 27-year-old Serb ended his Grand Slam title drought on Sunday, after a 6-7 (7-0), 6-4, 7-6 (7-4), 5-7, 6-4 win that stopped Federer, 32, from claiming an eighth title at the All England Club.
After missing a championship point and letting a 5-2 lead slip in the fourth set, Djokovic won the fifth set to end a run of three straight major finals defeat- and five out of six- and seal his second Wimbledon title.
“It’s the most special Grand Slam final I’ve played,” he said.
“At this time of my career for this Grand Slam trophy to arrive is crucial, especially after losing several Grand Slam finals in a row.
“I started doubting a little bit. I needed this win a lot. I’m going to try to use it in the best possible way and for my confidence to grow for the rest of my season and the rest of my career.”
Djokovic has now won seven Grand Slam titles and joins John McEnroe and Mats Wilander in the all-time list, led by Federer.
He had been in a danger of another painful defeat when the seventeen-time major winner fought back with five games in a row in the fourth set. He praised Federer after the win.
“Roger played very well, in a very high level. He showed why he’s champion,” Djokovic added. “He showed a fighting spirit, composure in important moments when he was a break down.”
For Serb, whose first triumph dates back in 2011, the contest is the best of his 14 Grand Slam finals, ahead of his record-breaking win over Rafael Nadal a the 2012 Australian Open that lasted for five hours and 53minutes.
He said: “This has been the best quality Grand Slam final that I have ever been part of.
“I have had a longest final against Nadal in the Australian Open 2012, but, quality-wise from the first to last point, this is definitely the best match.”
The victory sees Djokovic regain the ATP number one status from Spaniard Nadal, who lost out in the last-eight of this year’s championship.
