On this day in 2012 - Djokovic beats Nadal Down Under

Sport360 staff 12:49 29/01/2017
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  • It was only fitting that the 100th edition of the men’s Australian Open final resulted in an epic that is arguably the greatest title decider in the tournament’s history.

    On this day five years ago, Novak Djokovic captured his fifth major championship by defeating Rafael Nadal 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 7-6, 6-7, 7-5 in what the longest grand slam final in history at five hours and 53 minutes.

    Not only was it the longest, but it’s considered to be one of the finest matches ever played.

    After four gruelling sets, the final set appropriately came down to the wire. After Djokovic broke to level at 4-4, he made a crucial break to edge Nadal in thrilling fashion.

    We’ll be lucky to see another match like this ever again.

    Other memorable events that took place on this day

    1936: Babe Ruth is among first group elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame.

    1995: The San Francisco 49ers beat the San Diego Chargers 49-26 in Super Bowl XXIX.

    2006: Irfan Pathan becomes the first bowler to get a Test hat-trick in the opening over.

    2014: Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first non-Spanish player to captain Real Madrid.

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