WATCH: Novak Djokovic rips off his shirt in epic celebration after history-making title win at Athens 2025

Novak Djokovic making history is nothing new since he’s known for it, and he did it again in Athens by winning the Hellenic Championship. What stood out even more, though, was his unique way of celebrating the win, which took everyone by surprise and had the entire stadium cheering.

Djokovic has been very selective about the tournaments he plays these days, which was clear this season as he competed in only 13 events, including the Hellenic Championship in Athens. Before that, he took part in the Shanghai Masters, reaching the semifinals before an unexpected loss to eventual champion Valentin Vacherot.

The Serb, who moved to the Greek capital with his family just a few months ago, began his campaign with a win over Alejandro Tabilo. The top seed then defeated Nuno Borges and Yannick Hanfmann before facing Lorenzo Musetti in the final on Saturday, November 8.

Both players gave their best during the encounter, but it was Djokovic who ultimately came out on top after coming from a set down to secure a 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 victory. With this win, he claimed his 101st career title and his 72nd on hard courts, surpassing Roger Federer. He also became the oldest ATP champion at 38 years and five months.

After his victory, the 24-time Grand Slam champion celebrated in his own unique way as he fell to the ground to soak it all in. He then hugged Musetti, shook hands with the umpire, and ripped off his green shirt, roaring in pure ecstasy as the crowd erupted in cheers.

Watch the video below:

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Novak Djokovic after winning Athens 2025: "I’m just very proud of myself"

Novak Djokovic pictured at the 2025 Hellenic Championship | Image Source: Getty

Novak Djokovic was on cloud nine after winning the 2025 Hellenic Championship in Athens and didn’t waste a moment to show it. In his victory speech, he congratulated Lorenzo Musetti and shared how proud he was of himself for pulling through in such a tough final.

"An incredible battle… Three hours of a gruelling match, physically," Djokovic said. "It could have been anybody's match, so congrats to Lorenzo for an amazing performance. I’m just very proud of myself to get through this one."

Musetti also had high praise for Djokovic, saying the Serb was proving at 38 that he was still more than capable of going toe-to-toe with the younger generation, adding:

"Novak, there are not many words to say about you and your career. You are proving, still at your age, that you can kick us, like me today. Everytime I share the court with you, I take it as a lesson, so thanks for that."

Djokovic is next expected to head to Turin, Italy, for the ATP Finals, for which he has already qualified. However, according to Sky Sports' reports, he will not be participating.

His victory in Athens also meant that Musetti missed out on qualification, allowing Felix Auger-Aliassime to secure the final spot. The Italian, however, could still travel as an alternate.

Edited by Pritha Ghosh