Novak Djokovic clinches 24th Grand Slam victory in ‘extraordinary’ US Open showdown

Tennis sensation Novak Djokovic has cemented his place in the halls of tennis history after securing his 24th Grand Slam title at the US Open, equalling Margaret Court’s record.

With his recent win, Djokovic has not only secured his fourth US Open crown but also becomes the oldest US Open champion since Ken Rosewall back in 1970.

Djokovic began the match in fine form, securing a confident hold with consecutive aces and breaking Medvedev’s serve for a 2-0 lead after the Russian’s double-fault. He continued to dominate, adding a third ace before Medvedev got on the board in the fourth game.

Both players held their serves until Djokovic once again applied pressure on Medvedev, who was serving at 2-5. Medvedev showed resilience by saving two set points, but Djokovic eventually claimed the set.

Although Medvedev managed to fend off a break point with a sweeping volley in the second set, Djokovic held his ground. Medvedev had an opportunity to break in the next game with a leaping overhead, but Djokovic responded brilliantly with a half-volley.

Djokovic had a shaky moment while serving at 5-6, double-faulting twice, but he saved a set point and forced a tie-break with a crucial volley. Medvedev briefly seized momentum, leading 5-4 in the tie-break, but Djokovic won the next three points, clinching a marathon 104-minute second set.

Djokovic’s sportsmanship shone through in the third set when offered a helping hand to Medvedev after the Russians took a fall but reverted back to showing no mercy when break points emerged. Medvedev’s backhand error gave Djokovic a 3-1 lead, and although he initially gave the break back, Medvedev faltered again, allowing Djokovic to secure the title.

That’s a lot of hardware. ???? pic.twitter.com/eRPA0vxNMl

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 11, 2023

Following the impressive victory, which commentator Todd Woodbridge described as “extraordinary”, Djokovic told crowds that achieving 24 grand slam titles “means the world” to him.

“I’m really living my childhood dream. To compete at the highest level in the sport that has given me and my family so much coming from very difficult circumstances and adversities during the 90s, a couple of wars in our country and being able to push that through,” he said.

“Especially for my parents, giving a lot of sacrifice to support me and play this very expensive sport at the time, not affordable.

“I fell in love with tennis, it was quite a choice, but incredible resilience, belief from my parents and all the people around me all these years, everyone. This is your trophy as much as is mine. I love you.”

Medvedev was humble in defeat, praising Djokovic for his latest achievement.

“Congrats to you and your team,” Medvedev said.

“I mean, 24, I feel like I have not a bad career and I have 20 titles. You have 24 grand slams. Wow.”