By defeating Daniil Medvedev in a gruelling US Open final in New York, Novak Djokovic equaled the record for most Grand Slam singles titles with 24.
The 36-year-old Serb prevailed 6-3 7-6 (7-5) 6-3, although the straight-set score does not reflect the lengths to which he had to go.
After a relaxed first set, a punishing second set that lasted an hour and 44 minutes came.
Djokovic took control to tie Margaret Court’s 50-year record after the two traded breaks early in the third.
Djokovic remarked after his 24th major victory, “It certainly means the world to me.
“I’m actually achieving a childhood ambition of mine by participating in this sport at the top level, which has helped my family and I so much despite our challenging circumstances.
“I never imagined being here, but during the past few years, I felt like I could have a chance at making history. Why not seize it while it is offered?
two seeds Despite being physically drained, especially in that taxing second set, Djokovic displayed all the qualities that define greatness to win a fourth US Open championship.
Following his defeat in the Wimbledon final in July, Djokovic, who earlier this year broke Rafael Nadal’s previous record of 22 major titles for men, has now matched Court at the second attempt.
He became the first guy to accomplish this feat on four occasions in 2023 after winning three of the four Grand Slam tournaments.
At the Australian Open in January, where he has already won a record 10 titles, the incoming world number one will have the opportunity to exceed Court.
Another drawn-out rally was won by Djokovic to bring up the match’s decisive point, and after being forced to wait to serve by boos from the audience, Medvedev’s forehand into the net clinched the victory.
