Despite the fact that Novak Djokovic entered the Arthur Ashe Stadium as a favourite to win the US Open against Daniil Medvedev, the Serbian couldn’t take the pressure of winning a Calendar Grand Slam and fell to Russian Daniil Medvedev in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.
Djokovic was nervous from the start of the match, as he couldn’t find his best rhythm and allowed Medvedev to break his serve. A solitary break of serve was more than enough to win the set, with the Russian looking as sharp as ever. All the Russian had to do was hold his serve.
Medvedev did just that, refusing to allow the Serb an entry point back into the set. But, it would be unlike Djokovic to throw in his towel so early, especially when he had the chance to become the first man in the Open Era to win 21 major titles and complete the Calendar Slam.
Djokovic did everything he could, with the help of a voracious crowd, to drive Medvedev to make errors. While the Russian committed a few mistakes as one may expect, he didn’t really allow Djokovic much breathing room. In all the important points, he was pretty flawless and ended up saving a few break opportunities in the process.
The Russian broke Djokovic once in the first two games and went on to win both sets, 6-4, 6-4. Medvedev broke Djokovic’s first service game in the third set and raced ahead with a 4-0 lead, just as a major comeback appeared to be on the cards for the World No. 1.
Djokovic feels overwhelmed
Novak Djokovic has been heard sobbing during changeovers throughout the previous few games. He was completely overwhelmed thanks to the crowd’s amazing support. Despite a valiant effort from Djokovic, Medvedev emerged victorious in the third set, 6-4, to clinch his maiden major title. The biggest surprise, perhaps, was that he was able to do so in straight sets.
Djokovic was emotional at the post-match presentation, thanking the crowd for making him feel special on the court.
“I’m the happiest man alive because you guys made me feel very special on the court”, said Djokovic.
Djokovic: I’m the happiest man alive because you guys made me feel very special on the court
— Reem Abulleil (@ReemAbulleil) September 12, 2021
“Even though I have not won the match, my heart is filled with joy and I’m the happiest man alive because you guys made me feel very special on the court. I’ve never felt like this in New York, honestly.” – DJOKOVIC, Novak.
— Tumaini Carayol (@tumcarayol) September 12, 2021
The Serb went on to tell, “Even though I have not won the match, my heart is filled with joy. I’ve never felt like this in New York, honestly”.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, Novak Djokovic put in a valiant effort across the majors this year. Medvedev also deserved to win the US Open after a string of strong victories over the past few years.
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