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Monday, 13th September 2021
Novak Djokovic, overcome by loss but receiving heartfelt support from New York fans, was overcome with relief and sadness after his Grand Slam dream died with a US Open final defeat. Djokovic, the world number one, fell to Russia's second-ranked Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 in the final at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Sunday, missing the first calendar-year Slam since 1969. "Relief. I was glad it was over," Djokovic said of his feelings following the defeat.
"The buildup to this tournament, as well as everything I had to deal with mentally and emotionally throughout the tournament in the last few weeks, was exhausting. It was a lot to deal with "According to Djokovic.
"I was just relieved that the run was finally over. At the same time, I felt sadness, disappointment, and gratitude for the audience and the special moment they created for me on the court."
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Djokovic also missed out on a fourth US Open title and his 21st career Grand Slam, leaving him tied with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer for the men's record 20 Slam trophies.
"There are so many different emotions," he said. "A part of me is depressed. This defeat is difficult to accept, given everything that was at stake.
"On the other hand, I felt something I'd never felt before in New York." The audience made me feel very special. "They surprised me in a good way."
Down two sets and two breaks, US Open fans cheered for Djokovic's comeback, which he said would last as long as a Grand Slam.
"The amount of support, energy, and love I received from the crowd was something I'll remember for the rest of my life," Djokovic said. "That's why I burst into tears during the changeover." The emotion, the energy, was palpable.
"It's equivalent to winning 21 Grand Slams." That's how I felt, very unique. They made an impression on me. These are the kinds of moments you remember. It was simply wonderful."
Djokovic admitted from the start that he lacked the game to compete with a determined Medvedev.
"I was just a little bit below par with my game," Djokovic admitted. "My legs were nowhere to be found. I was making an effort. I gave it my all. I made a lot of unintentional mistakes. I didn't have much of a serve.
"It was just one of those days that wasn't meant to be.
"I'm well aware that I could and should have done better. It's a heartbreaking defeat."
The News Talkie Bureau
Source
NDTV