Novak Djokovic Wins US Open, Earning Title of Oldest Male Champion

Last Updated on September 11, 2023 by SPN Editor

New York/September 11, 2023 (SPN) | In a stunning turn of events, Novak Djokovic emerged triumphant at the US Open 2023, securing his fourth championship in New York. This victory was particularly sweet as it marked Djokovic as the oldest male champion in the Open era of this prestigious tennis tournament.

Djokovic’s path to victory was notably challenging, as he faced off against Daniil Medvedev, the same opponent who had thwarted his bid for a calendar-year Grand Slam in 2021. Medvedev playfully quipped during the trophy presentation, “First of all, Novak, I want to ask: What are you still doing here?” This good-natured comment added a touch of humor to the event.

What made this win even more remarkable was the fact that Novak Djokovic couldn’t compete in the U.S. Open the previous year due to his unvaccinated status against COVID-19.

However, he made a triumphant return, capturing his fourth US Open title and adding it to his impressive collection of Grand Slam trophies, which include 10 from the Australian Open, seven from Wimbledon, and three from the French Open. Djokovic’s 24 Grand Slam titles extend his lead on the all-time men’s list.

Rafael Nadal, who has been recovering from a hip injury since January, is next with 22, while Roger Federer, who retired a year ago, has 20.

After the intense match concluded, Medvedev and Djokovic shared a friendly moment at the net. Djokovic’s emotions ran high as he flung his racket aside, raised his arms, and knelt on the court with his head bowed. The celebration began in earnest as he embraced his daughter, followed by his son, wife, and team.

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Djokovic even paid tribute to the late NBA star Kobe Bryant, who wore the jersey number “24.” He donned a shirt with “24” and “Mamba Forever” written on it, and a white jacket with the same significant number stamped on the chest.

Djokovic’s performance this season has been nothing short of exceptional, with a 27-1 record in the sport’s most prestigious events. His only loss was to Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final in July. Djokovic is set to reclaim the No. 1 ranking on Monday, overtaking Alcaraz, the defending champion at Flushing Meadows, who was eliminated by No. 3 Medvedev.

From the outset of the U.S. Open final, Djokovic exuded confidence. Despite the retractable roof being closed due to rain in the forecast, Novak Djokovic showed no signs of nerves. He demonstrated impeccable movement and precision in his strokes, securing a 3-0 and 4-1 lead by taking 12 of the first 16 points, including three aces and four lengthy exchanges.

Medvedev appeared tense and jittery, with his racket frequently faltering, resulting in multiple double faults in the opening set.

Djokovic’s unwavering consistency was on full display as he anticipated and responded to almost every shot, showcasing his exceptional defensive skills.