Defending champion Novak Djokovic battled past Rafael Nadal in an epic, five-set Australian Open final which clocked in at 5hr 53min - the longest title match in grand slam history - early on Monday. Djokovic fought back from losing the first set to take a 2-1 lead, but he was then taken to a gripping fifth set by resurgent Nadal before winning 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 for his third consecutive major title. Djokovic, who picks up a cheque for Aus$2.3 million (US$2.4 million), has now beaten the Spaniard in three consecutive grand slam finals and seven consecutive title matches overall. It was a match of wildly swinging fortunes, which started before 8:00 pm on Sunday, but did not wind up until 1:40 am on Monday. Source: 5 hours, 53 minutes: Djokovic beats Nadal to win epic Australian Open final | Deccan Chronicle
