Milestone Man: Novak Djokovic hits 100 titles with epic Geneva Open victory over Hubert Hurkacz

Novak Djokovic finally claims his 100th title after defeating Hubert Hurkacz in the Geneva Open final by 5-7, 7-6(2), 7-6(2). The Serbian culminates a great week on clay courts with 5 consecutive victories and will arrive at Roland Garros full of confidence.

The world No. 6 had fallen short in his last two finals in Shanghai 2024 and Miami 2025, and also arrived in irregular form with two losses in the clay-court swing and no wins. However, with the French Open just days away, Nole brought out his best this week and will arrive at the next Grand Slam with a new trophy in his cabinet.

Both players arrived at the final showcasing great serving effectiveness, especially Djokovic, who in all his previous matches won over 75% of his service points. Everything seemed set for Nole this time too, with Hurkacz barely able to return Djokovic's serves. The Serbian managed a couple of break opportunities around the fifth game, but the Pole managed to pull through with several consecutive first serves and showing composure under pressure.

Neither player could put much pressure on their opponent's serve for much of the set, and just when it seemed destined for a tie-break (Djokovic serving at 5-6, 30-15), Hurkacz took four of the last five points consecutively and secured the break at the most crucial moment, closing the set 7-5 to the surprise of a Nole who had been impeccable on serve. Nevertheless, the Pole had been more aggressive with 17 winners against only 8 for Djokovic, alongside 11 unforced errors for 'Hubi,' slightly behind his opponent's 13.

Again, Hurkacz faced pressure when he immediately gave his opponent a break point. However, he managed to pull through once more and avoid the break. Gradually, the greater fatigue of both players began to show, with service games becoming more contested and featuring more long points throughout the match. Nevertheless, both managed to hold their serves, although Djokovic seemed closer to achieving a break.

However, once again, the key moment made the difference. After a set development quite similar to the first, this time all was defined in the tie-break. Djokovic showed his experience, and after quickly taking the lead, he held on to his serve to ultimately claim the set 7-6[7-2]. Nole had been more consistent with his serve, winning 89% of points on his first serve and 42% on his second. The Serbian improved his aggression, increasing his winners to 17, the same amount as Hurkacz.

The third set would be a battle of nerves between the two, after Hurkacz quickly secured an early break that put him ahead. Similar to earlier in the set, Djokovic had to fight from behind, with the Pole leading 2-0. Hurkacz extended his lead to 4-2, having won all 12 points played on his serve. However, he committed a couple of unforced errors, and a masterful Djokovic secured the break that restored equality at 4-4, maintaining the suspense until the final part of the match.

With Nole in the lead, this time it was Hurkacz who had to keep pace with his opponent on serve, and he sent everything to a tie-break without difficulty. In the moment of greatest tension in the match, Hurkacz committed four unforced forehand errors, which ended up being key to the Serbian's triumph by 5-7, 7-6(2), 7-6(2). Nole becomes the third player to reach the mark of 100 titles, only behind Jimmy Connors (109) and Roger Federer (103).