Novak Djokovic widens lead as tennis’ highest ever earner with French Open glory
Novak Djokovic landed another £2million pay packet by winning the French Open to extend his lead as the biggest earner in tennis history.
The Serbian, who also become the first player to win 23 Grand Slam men's singles titles, has now earned an astonishing £134m since turning professional back in 2003.
Rafael Nadal (£106m) and Roger Federer (£103m) make up the top three on the all-time list, with Serena Williams (£74m) pushing Andy Murray (£50m ) into fifth place.
Djokovic beat Casper Ruud in straight sets to claim yet another Grand Slam triumph, overtaking the 22 won by 37-year-old Nadal with Federer winning 2020 before his retirement.
READ MORE: Novak Djokovic rages at 'disrespectful' crowd during explosive French Open interview
The 36-year-old became the fourth oldest men's Grand Slam winner in history – the oldest ever on the clay at Roland Garros.
Djokovic collapsed to the ground after his 7-6 (7-1) 6-3 7-5 triumph, feeling emotional over his landmark victory.
He said: "Thank you very much one more time for such a special atmosphere. I am very happy to share such a special moment in my career with you. Thank you very much.
"It's no coincidence that my 23rd Grand Slam title has come here because it has been the hardest one for me to win in my career. I am very emotional right now and I am very, very proud to be here. Thank you for all your support and all the energy I have gained from you.
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"Casper, thank you for your nice words. You are, not just because we are standing here, you are one of the best personalities on the tour. People respect you, appreciate you and love and for good reason.
"I had to say that first, because I really feel like in today's word it is important to note when someone has really good human values. You, your team, your family and coaches have been super nice to me and my team so you deserve great respect and applause for that.
"I'm sorry for the result today. It's not the best way to finish for you but you've had an incredible couple of years. You have been one of the most consistent players in the world for the last four, five years. It speaks about your quality of tennis and I wish you the best. I wish for you to win against anybody but me [laughs]."
Despite holding the men's record, he remains one behind the all-time record of 24 won by Margaret Court, going one ahead of the 22 won by Williams.
Taking to twitter to congratulate his rival, Nadal said: "Many congrats on this amazing achievement @DjokerNole.
"23 is a number that just a few years back was imposible to think about, and you made it! Enjoy it with your family and team!"
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