Novak Djokovic achieved a historic milestone by winning his 24th Grand Slam singles title in a grueling US Open final against Daniil Medvedev in New York.
The 36-year-old Serbian maestro secured a hard-fought victory with a scoreline of 6-3, 7-6 (7-5), 6-3. However, this straight-set result doesn’t fully convey the epic battle that unfolded on the court.
Djokovic began the match with a comfortable opening set, but the intensity surged in the second set, lasting a staggering one hour and 44 minutes. Both players exhibited incredible skills and determination during this phase.
Novak Djokovic continues to write history.@AustralianOpen | @rolandgarros | @Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/RrBFOQdiN6
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 11, 2023
After exchanging early breaks in the third set, Djokovic took control, equaling Margaret Court’s 50-year-old record of 24 major titles in the process.
In a post-match interview, an emotional Djokovic expressed his gratitude for achieving this remarkable feat, saying, “It obviously means the world to me. I’m really living my childhood dream to compete at the highest level in this sport, which has given me and my family so much from difficult circumstances. I never thought I would be here, but in the last couple of years, I thought I had a shot at history. Why not grab it when it is presented?”
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Throughout the match, Djokovic displayed his characteristic resilience, even when he seemed physically challenged in the grueling second set. This victory marked his fourth US Open title and solidified his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Djokovic, who surpassed Rafael Nadal’s record earlier that year, has now matched Margaret Court’s record at the second attempt after a loss in the Wimbledon final in July.
I’m ready to say something I’ve always refrained from saying out of respect for Federer & Nadal:
Novak Djokovic is the greatest male tennis player of all time. Not just statistically. The greatest ever, period. For the first time, I can confidently say this won't change. Fin 🐐
— Bastien Fachan (@BastienFachan) September 11, 2023
Having secured three out of four Grand Slam titles in 2023, Djokovic has accomplished this remarkable feat for the fourth time, setting an unprecedented standard in the world of tennis.
As he celebrated his victory, Djokovic acknowledged his family’s unwavering support and resilience during challenging times, especially in war-torn Serbia during the 1990s. He dedicated his triumph to them and paid tribute to his friend Kobe Bryant, who wore the number 24 jersey during his illustrious NBA career.
“Kobe was a close friend… we chatted a lot about the winner’s mentality.”
Novak Djokovic on honoring Kobe Bryant after winning his 24th major title. 💜💛 pic.twitter.com/eS3SWbIhq4
— NBA (@NBA) September 11, 2023
Djokovic’s incredible journey to his 24th Grand Slam title is a testament to his relentless dedication to the sport and his unwavering pursuit of greatness. With this win, he is set to return to the world number one ranking