In a moment that will be etched in tennis history, Novak Djokovic clinched his 100th career singles title at the Geneva Open, overcoming Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz in a grueling three-set battle that showcased the Serbian’s trademark resilience. The victory, sealed with a 5-7, 7-6(2), 7-6(2) scoreline, marked a monumental milestone for the 38-year-old, who became only the third man in the Open Era to reach a century of ATP titles, joining legends Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer. The triumph, celebrated in the picturesque Swiss city where Djokovic’s extended family resides, was made even more special by the presence of his wife, Jelena, and their children, who joined him to mark the occasion. As the world No. 6 prepares for the French Open, this victory signals a resurgence of form and a renewed hunger to chase a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam.
The Geneva Open final was a test of endurance and nerve, with Djokovic facing a formidable opponent in Hurkacz, whose powerful serve and aggressive play pushed the Serbian to his limits. Trailing after a first-set loss, marred by a double fault that handed Hurkacz the edge, Djokovic found himself a break down in the decisive third set. Yet, in a display of the mental fortitude that has defined his career, he clawed his way back, capitalizing on Hurkacz’s unforced errors to level the score at 4-4. The match culminated in two tiebreaks, where Djokovic’s experience shone, as he dominated with precise serves and relentless focus. “I had to work for it, that’s for sure,” Djokovic said in an emotional on-court interview, his voice tinged with relief and gratitude. “Huby was probably closer to the victory the entire match than I was. I don’t know how I broke his serve, he probably broke himself in the third when he was 4-3 up, but this is what happens on this level.”
The milestone was particularly poignant for Djokovic, who turned 38 just two days before the final. Surrounded by family, including his wife Jelena, children Stefan and Tara, and relatives who live in Geneva, the victory carried deep personal significance. “I want to thank my wife and my kids for coming for three days only on the school break, cutting the school for one day, just to be with me,” he said, acknowledging their sacrifice to share in his triumph. Jelena, a constant pillar of support through Djokovic’s 22-year career, was visibly moved, her pride evident as the crowd cheered and ball boys and girls formed the number “100” on the court in tribute. The Serbian star also thanked his team, admitting, “Today was very challenging to stay with me on the court because I was going off at you quite a lot … so I want to thank you for staying here and earning with me this victory number 100.”
This 100th title comes nearly 19 years after Djokovic’s first ATP triumph in 2006, when he defeated Nicolás Massú—Hurkacz’s current coach—in Amersfoort. The journey to this milestone has been marked by unparalleled consistency, with Djokovic becoming the first man to win titles in 20 consecutive seasons. His 100 titles span 29 cities across four continents, including 24 Grand Slams, 40 Masters titles, and an Olympic gold medal from Paris 2024. Despite recent struggles, including losses in the Shanghai and Miami finals and early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid, Djokovic’s Geneva performance was a reminder of his enduring brilliance. “An incredible match, 7-6 in the third with a full stadium, beautiful atmosphere,” he reflected, savoring the electric energy of the Swiss crowd.
For Jelena, who has championed Djokovic’s career and their shared philanthropy through the Novak Djokovic Foundation, the moment was a testament to his resilience. The foundation, focused on providing educational opportunities for disadvantaged children, reflects the couple’s commitment to giving back, a legacy that parallels Djokovic’s on-court achievements. Hurkacz, gracious in defeat, praised his opponent, saying, “It’s really inspiring how you present yourself on the court, off the court. It’s just really incredible what you have achieved.” Djokovic, ever empathetic, acknowledged Hurkacz’s effort: “I know it’s a bitter taste in the mouth to lose the match like this.”
As Djokovic heads to Roland Garros, where he faces Mackenzie McDonald in the first round, the Geneva triumph has boosted his confidence. The clay courts of Paris, where he won Olympic gold last summer, offer a chance to add to his 24 Grand Slams and further cement his legacy as tennis’ greatest. With Jelena and their family by his side, Djokovic’s 100th title is not just a number but a symbol of his relentless pursuit of excellence, a journey that continues to captivate fans worldwide.
# Novak Djokovic’s 100th Title Triumph at Geneva Open
In a historic moment, Novak Djokovic clinched his 100th career singles title at the Geneva Open, defeating Hubert Hurkacz 5-7, 7-6(2), 7-6(2) in a thrilling three-hour final. The victory made him the third man in the Open Era to reach 100 ATP titles, joining Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer. “I had to work for it, that’s for sure,” Djokovic said, reflecting on the grueling match. “Huby was probably closer to the victory the entire match than I was.”
The milestone was deeply personal, celebrated with his wife Jelena and children in Geneva, where relatives reside. “I want to thank my wife and my kids for coming for three days only on the school break, cutting the school for one day, just to be with me,” he said, acknowledging their support. Despite a first-set loss and a break down in the third, Djokovic’s resilience shone, capitalizing on Hurkacz’s errors to secure the win. “An incredible match, 7-6 in the third with a full stadium, beautiful atmosphere,” he added.
Hurkacz praised Djokovic, saying, “It’s really inspiring how you present yourself on the court, off the court.” Djokovic responded, “I know it’s a bitter taste in the mouth to lose the match like this.” The victory, his first since the 2024 Paris Olympics, sets the stage for Djokovic’s French Open campaign, where he aims for a 25th Grand Slam.
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