NOVAK DJOKOVIC became the greatest player in the history of men’s professional tennis as he celebrated a record-breaking 23rd Slam here in Paris.

A 7-6 6-3 7-5 victory over Casper Ruud means that for the first time in his career, the Serbian can boast more majors than his great rivals Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal.

Subjectively, fans may argue the retired Federer will always be the maestro of this sport, an artist with a tennis racquet.

There are those who would point to and debate the merits of Nadal’s unrivalled supremacy at Roland Garros and his indefatigable warrior spirit.

But love him or loathe him, statistically-speaking no man has won more top titles than Djokovic – a target he has been chasing ever since he turned professional 20 years ago.

And the women’s Slam target of 24 set by Margaret Court in 1973 is within his reach when he dons Wimbledon whites next month.

Several sporting superstars were courtside in the 16th arrondissement to watch Djokovic’s moment of immortality.

Tom Brady, considered to be the GOAT of American Football, was a guest in the Djokovic box and would have appreciated the unfolding racquet drama.

France World Cup winners Kylian Mbappe and Olivier Giroud and former Sweden and Manchester United forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic watched from the comfy VIP seats as Djokovic achieved his crowning glory in straight sets.

Djokovic – who returns to the summit of the world rankings – is now the first man in history to win each Slam tournament at least three times.