Djokovic bags Eastbourne title

Djokovic, playing the week before Wimbledon for the first time since 2010, captured his 68th career title — but just the second this year — after downing Monfils for the 14th time in as many meetings.

Published : Jul 01, 2017 21:05 IST

Novak Djokovic with the trophy.

Novak Djokovic clinched his first title since January with a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Gael Monfils in the Eastbourne final on Saturday.

Djokovic, playing the week before Wimbledon for the first time since 2010, captured his 68th career title — but just the second this year — after downing Monfils for the 14th time in as many meetings.

“It’s been a great decision to come here,” Djokovic, whose form has dramatically tailed off since completing the career Grand Slam at last year’s French Open, said.

“Coming to Eastbourne I obviously haven’t had as much success as in previous seasons during the first six months.”

The World No. 4 will face Slovakia’s Martin Klizan in the first round at Wimbledon where he is a three-time former champion.