Djokovic wins fifth Australian Open title

Novak Djokovic won his fifth Australian Open title and extended Andy Murray’s misery at Melbourne Park by beating the Scotsman 7-6 (5), 6-7 (4), 6-3, 6-0 in the final Sunday.

Djokovic broke open a close match with a service break in the eighth game of the third set, winning four straight points. When he took a 4-0 lead in the final set, he smacked his fist hard against his chest in celebration.

Murray has now been runner-up four times here, losing twice previously to Djokovic in 2011 and 2013 and to Roger Federer in 2010.The No. 1-ranked Djokovic, meanwhile, is a perfect 5-for-5 in Australian Open finals.

Djokovic swung momentum in a close match with a service break in the eighth game of the third set, winning four straight points.

When he took a 4-0 lead in the last set, he smacked his fist hard against his chest in celebration. At the end of the match, Djokovic threw his racket into the crowd at Rod Laver Arena.

Roy Emerson, the only other man with five or more Australian titles, was in the crowd and Djokovic acknowledged the presence of the six-time champion.

“I’m so grateful to be standing here as a champion for the fifth time, and to be in the elite group of players – Roy Emerson, Rod Laver and all the legends of our sport,” Djokovic said.

Murray sat slumped over in his chair after the match, awaiting the presentations, and once again received the runner-up plate instead of the trophy.

“It’s been my most consistent Grand Slam of my career. I haven’t been quite able to win, but the support I’ve received here has been amazing,” Murray said. Sapa/AP