World No. 1 Novak Djokovic defeated Spaniard Rafael Nadal on Monday, a thrilling five-set victory, in what was described as the greatest Grand Slam singles final of all time at the Australian Open in Melbourne.

The 24-year-old Djokovic, out of sheer bliss, ripped off his sweat-soaked shirt and let out a scream on winning the Australian Open title with a final score is 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7(5), 7-5.

Jelena Ristic, Djokovic's girlfriend, also celebrated his victory as she cheered from the stands.

Djokovic and Nadal played a gripping match in front of an enthralled crowd early Sunday, in what was perhaps the longest title match in grand slam at 5 hours, 53 minutes.

A dejected Nadal was seen holding his head as the Serbian top seed took claim of the grand title for the third time in a row.

Djokovic becomes the fifth man to win three straight slams, joining the ranks of Rod Laver, Pete Sampras and Roger Federer. Opponent Nadal had also previously won three consecutive grand slams in the open era.

Following his win, Djokovic will go for the Nole Slam at Roland Garros in May.

Djokovic celebrates Victory
Djokovic of Serbia celebrates after defeating Nadal of Spain in their men's singles final match at the Australian Open in Melbourne POOL New / Reuters
Djokovic celebrates victory
Djokovic of Serbia celebrates after defeating Nadal of Spain in their men's singles final match at the Australian Open in Melbourne POOL New / Reuters
Djokovic039s victory
Djokovic of Serbia celebrates after defeating Nadal of Spain in their men's singles final match at the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne POOL New / Reuters
Djokovic039s victory
Nadal of Spain reacts during his men's singles final match against Djokovic of Serbia at the Australian Open in Melbourne REUTERS/Mark Blinch POOL New / Reuters
Djokovic039s victory
Ristic, girlfriend of Novak Djokovic of Serbia, reacts as she watches men's singles final match against Nadal of Spain at the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne Tim Wimborne / Reuters
Djokovic celebrates victory
Djokovic of Serbia celebrates after defeating Nadal of Spain in their men's singles final match at the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne REUTERS/Toby Melville
Djokovic celebrates victory
Djokovic of Serbia celebrates after defeating Nadal of Spain in their men's singles final match at the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne REUTERS/Daniel Munoz