Redemption for Dodig and Krajicek

Ivan Dodig and Austin Krajicek have flipped the script to be crowned the Roland-Garros men's doubles champions on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Saturday.

Last June, the Croatian-American combination surrendered three match points in the final to finish runners-up.

A year on, and Dodig and Krajicek proved their major credentials with a 6-3, 6-1 victory over Belgian pair Sander Gille and Joran Vliegen.

The trophy had extra significance for Krajicek: his first Grand Slam title launches him to doubles world No.1 for the first time.

"It feels great, especially after the final last year, was an extremely tough loss. It feels amazing to have another chance 12 months on and we were able to get it done," Krajicek told rolandgarros.com.

"I was trying not to think about the No.1. We really wanted to win this match. It means a lot, but our goal is to make Turin again [season ending Finals], I've been more focused as a team.  

"Like everybody, it was a huge goal to be world No.1 one day, so it's pretty cool. But we're back to the drawing board next week and excited to get on the grass."

Dodig was delighted for his partner to reach the rankings summit.

"I still didn't make it, I've been playing for 15 years," the Croatian quipped. "I had maybe 11 years [in the] top 10. It's such a difficult task and he deserves it, I'm very happy for him."

For Dodig, this year's triumph is extra special after their 2022 heartbreak.

"It was very difficult. When you're so close, you doubt if you'll get another chance," the 38-year-old said.

"We came back stronger, we fight through the tournament and it shows we learned a lot from last year. We were so calm and confident today and that was very important."

During the match, the first four games went with serve.

Forced out wide to the left, Dodig connected with a forehand lob next to the the advertising boards, Krajicek capped the point with an overhead and the No.4 seeds chalked up the first break opportunity.

The Belgians were steady, and used a series of angled volleys to earn their own chance. Dodig, chasing his third men's doubles major, diffused the danger with perfect shot placement.

The Croatian crushed a forehand on the rise and Krajicek's smooth net play forced the vital error as they stole a 5-3 break lead.

Spurred on by a Player's Box full of friends and family, Dodig and Krajicek demonstrated why they have become such a lethal partnership, roaring through seven of the last eight games of the match to kick-start the celebrations. 

Dodig had been confident that they could lift the title on Saturday, which was evident from his flight itinerary. 

"It's definitely going to be a late night, I already planned for this. I was not cocky, but I was confident, so I booked my flight on Monday," admitted Dodig. 

"So tomorrow I can recover from tonight. We have a lot of friends and family here, so it's time to get some good dinner, some drinks, then back home before London."