Novak Djokovic says what he finds ‘amazing’ about Lorenzo Musetti after beating him in Hellenic Championship final

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Novak Djokovic was at his brilliant best against Lorenzo Musetti, as he won the 101st title of his legendary career.

Taking on an ATP Finals-chasing Musetti, Djokovic was pushed from the very beginning in Athens.

Falling behind 4-6, the Serb had it all to do after Musetti played the set of his life.

Fighting back as he so often does, Djokovic won the second set 6-3 to force a decider in the Hellenic Championship final.

There, momentum swung back and forth before Djokovic secured a 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 win after more than three hours of gripping action.

During the post-match ceremonies, the 38-year-old took the time to praise Musetti, who has now lost six ATP finals in a row.

Novak Djokovic says Lorenzo Musetti’s improvements on hard courts are ‘amazing’

Djokovic was quick to credit Musetti, who played a starring role in one of the matches of the year.

“I don’t know where to start. First of all, out of respect for Lorenzo [Musetti] and his performance today and his performance all week, I want to say a few words,” he said.

“I think at this level we all pretty much experience the feeling of playing such a close match and losing. I know it’s a tough feeling to accept right now, but if there is anything to take away, this is your level of tennis; it’s been incredible all week, especially today.

“I’ve played you many times on different surfaces. I hope you don’t mind me saying, you probably play your best tennis on clay courts, but your improvements on hard courts are amazing, keep going, your future is bright.”

Musetti had struggled away from his favored clay courts before 2025, but now seems able to compete with the very best in men’s tennis on all three surfaces.

Djokovic proceeded to thank the people of Greece for providing a special atmosphere all week.

“I would now like to take the opportunity to thank the people of Greece, of Athens, for coming out and supporting the tournament, the tennis, sport,” he said.

“This is the first time Greece has had this level of tennis for more than 30 years, and honestly, the overall feeling after this week, it felt like the tournament never left, like it was here every year.

“You were amazing, thank you so much.

“I’ve said this before, but I’m going to repeat it again.

“Playing here and being here feels like home, and you guys make it like that for me. Thank you so much.”

That sentiment was echoed by Musetti, who was eyeing a return to Athens during his runners-up speech.

Lorenzo Musetti says he ‘hopes’ he can come back to Athens despite final defeat

Musetti took a moment to thank the fans in Athens, who came out in their numbers to watch the Hellenic Championship ATP 250 event this week.

“First of all, I want to say thank you to everybody, it’s a really special atmosphere, I felt at home, honestly,” he said.

“I really like Athens, so hopefully I can come back.”

He quickly turned his attention to Djokovic, who now leads their head-to-head 9-1.

“What can I say, tough to speak after you play three hours against Nole,” said Musetti.

“Novak, what can I say? There aren’t many words to say about yourself, your career. 

“Every time I step on the court against you and I share the court with you, I take it as a lesson, so thanks for that.”

Reflecting on his latest final defeat, Musetti shared a few words with his team and family.

“I want to say thanks to my team, to my family, who are always supporting me. It’s always tough in these moments,” he said.

“In the last three years, I’ve reached some finals, but I’ve never lifted the heavier trophy, but I’m pretty sure that soon I will reach that goal.”

After winning his first two tour-level finals, Musetti has lost six in a row, a run that will no doubt worry the 23-year-old.

Only time will tell if Musetti can finally get his hands on a title in 2026, but it will certainly be something to look out for.

Musetti and Djokovic will now both head to Turin for the ATP Finals, with the former set to act as an alternate, ready to step in if any of the top eight withdraw.