The mutual respect was palpable when Daniil Medvedev and Novak Djokovic hugged after the US Open men’s singles final on Sunday. The number 2 in the world rankings from Russia ruled sovereign and came up with a great masterclass against the Serbs in order to win the grand final with 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 and to get his first Grand Slam title.
In an emotional award ceremony after the game, Daniil Medvedev paid the ultimate tribute to Novak Djokovic, saying he believes the Serb is “the greatest player of all time” in the history of the sport. Djokovic smiled widely and took note of his opponent’s praise after tearing himself apart during the trophy handover.
Medvedev said he had never said this to anyone else but felt that Djokovic was worth enough of the GOAT label in men’s tennis. The 25-year-old Russian star apologized for spoiling Djokovic’s New York party when he denied the Serb a calendar slam on Sunday.
US Open final: Medvedev outclasses Djokovic – Highlights | report
“First of all, I want to apologize for the fans and Novak because we all know what he was up to today. I just want to say that you have been brilliant this year and throughout your career,” said Medvedev.
“I’ve never said that to anyone. But I’ll say it now. To me, you’re the greatest tennis player in history.”
Celebration after the game inspired by @EASPORTSFIFA?!@DaniilMedwed You are a legend. pic.twitter.com/oMoI0Dgjnk
– US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 12, 2021
Medvedev did what Djokovic has done to many of his opponents over the years by putting on a clinical show and not being upset by the Serb at any point in the final, which lasted 2 hours and 15 minutes. It was Medvedev who appeared to be in Zen mode, pausing each of the first two sentences. It looked unlikely, but the New York crowd and tennis brotherhood didn’t rule out another stunning comeback from Djokovic after 2 sets.
Medvedev put Djokovic under relentless pressure and got a double break to 3-0 in the third set before ending the game despite missing his first championship point.
I can’t lose the final: Medvedev’s fears on the 3rd wedding anniversary
Medvedev, who was in his best shape, announced that it was his 3rd wedding anniversary on Sunday and that he had not received a present for his wife, who was standing in the stands at Arthur Ashe Stadium, before the final. Medvedev said he wanted to win the grand finale at all costs in order not to get the gift for his significant other in time.
“Today is my third anniversary for me and my wife. You know, during the tournament I couldn’t think of a present or anything. When I got to the finals, I thought if I lose I have to find a present quickly. When I was in the Playing Finale, I thought, ‘If I lose, I don’t have time to find a present so I have to win. I love you Daria, thank you very much, “he added.
Djokovic stayed tied with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in 20 Grand Slams when he missed the opportunity to reach 21 in 2021.
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