World No.1 Novak Djokovic vanquished long-time rival Roger Federer to win the US Open to cap one of the greatest grand slam seasons of all-time.
Thrilled to win a point in the U.S. Open final, and bent on proving a point, Novak Djokovic leaped and roared and threw an uppercut, then glared at some of the thousands of spectators pulling for Roger Federer.
After winning another point in that game, Djokovic nodded as he smiled toward the stands. And moments later, Djokovic shook his right arm, bloodied by an early fall, and screamed, 'Yes! Yes!' to celebrate a missed forehand by Federer.
Djokovic appeared to be all alone out there in Arthur Ashe Stadium, trying to solve Federer while also dealing with a crowd loudly supporting the 17-time major champion proclaimed 'arguably the greatest player in the history of the sport' by the stadium announcer during prematch introductions.
In the end, Djokovic handled everything in a thrill-a-minute final on a frenetic night. Frustrating Federer with his relentless defense and unparalleled returning, Djokovic took control late and held on for a 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 victory Sunday to earn his second U.S. Open title, third major championship of the year and 10th Grand Slam trophy in all.
'Seems like there are not many guys that can hang with him, don't have the tools or dare to go forward, or they aren't (daring) to serve-and-volley against him, because he's so good on the return. Which he is. He's perfected his game on the hard courts, no doubt about it,' Federer said.
'He was always a great clay-court player, and because he moves as well as he does, he's solid and consistent now on the grass.'
Well, that covers the surfaces used at the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open.
'To say the least, it's very impressive. He's having unbelievable career. I think everybody knows that he knows that, as well,' Federer said. 'Tonight is another example of that.'
'I have a tremendous respect for Roger and what his game is presenting to me and to any other player,' Djokovic said during the trophy ceremony. 'His level is always going to (force) the best out of you and that was needed from my side.'
No comments:
Post a Comment