US Open final 2023 LIVE: Novak Djokovic v Daniil Medvedev result and reaction after record 24th grand slam

Novak Djokovic battled past Daniil Medvedev 6-3 7-6(5) 6-3 and into the tennis history books on Sunday, winning the U.S. Open to equal Margaret Court’s record haul of 24 Grand Slams.

The victory, his fourth in 10 Flushing Meadows finals, capped another remarkable Grand Slam campaign for Djokovic with wins at the Australian, French and U.S. Opens and a return to the top of the world rankings when they are updated on Monday. The 36-year-old Serb becomes the oldest U.S. Open men’s winner in the Open Era and the first to win three Grand Slam events in a season for the fourth time. The win was also measure of revenge for Djokovic.

The second seed walked out on to a packed Arthur Ashe Stadium on Sunday and stared across the net at Medvedev the man once again standing between him and history just as he had two years ago. The last time the two clashed at the U.S. Open was in the 2021 final, when the Russian captured his only major and denied the Serb a rare calendar Grand Slam. While Djokovic and Medvedev are intriguing figures, neither has been fully embraced by the New York crowds.

Certainly there was little of the electricity that crackled through Arthur Ashe during the women’s final on Saturday, with no clear support for either player from an attentive but subdued audience. As expected in a contest featuring the sport’s two premier hardcourt players, almost every point was contested with long rallies as both men pounded away at each other from the baseline. Djokovic came out playing with purpose and applied pressure right away breaking the third seed at the first opportunity on way to a 3-0 lead.

That would be the only break Djokovic would need against a surprisingly flat Medvedev who could not manufacture a single break chance in the first set. During a marathon one hour and 44 minute, lung-bursting second set Medvedev would find life forcing a tiring Djokovic into long grinding point, after grinding point. But the tireless Russian’s hard work would pay no dividends unable to convert any of his few break chances including one at 6-5 that would have given him the set.

Medvedev charged in front 3-1 of the tie-break but again could not land the knockout blow as Djokovic came off the ropes to take it 7-5 and a 2-0 lead. If there is one thing Djokovic possesses it is a killer instinct and the Serb wasted no time striking breaking Medvedev to go up 3-1 in the third. A defiant Medvedev answered with his first and only break of the match but it was not enough with Djokovic hitting right back with another break then holding serve the rest of way to clinch the title.

Relive all the action from the US Open men’s final and reaction as Novak Djokovic defeats Daniil Medvedev.

US Open men’s final

• Coco Gauff claims US Open title with incredible comeback victory over Aryna Sabalenka

• Rafael Nadal fitness update ahead of farewell tour in 2024

• BREAK! Djokovic ruthlessly breaks to love in the second game of the match [DJO 2-0 MED]

• SET! Djokovic holds his nerve and finally converts his third set point [DJO 6-3 MED]

• SET! Djokovic grinds out the tiebreak over a marathon set across an hour and 45 minutes [DJO 6-3, 7-6 MED]

• CHAMPIONSHIP! Djokovic forces Medvedev into another mistake to close out record-equaling 24th slam title [DJO 6-3, 7-6, 6-3 MED]

• Daniil Medvedev tells Novak Djokovic story after US Open final defeat

• Novak Djokovic explains Kobe Bryant tribute

Medvedev regrets losing mammoth second set

09:09 , Lawrence Ostlere

A Medvedev double-fault and a blistering backhand winner down the line gave Djokovic the early break point which he converted to love to subsequently take the first set in a relatively speedy 48 minutes. But Medvedev, returning from about a quarter-of-a-mile behind the baseline, made Djokovic toil in the second set and it began to show with the favourite showing signs of fatigue.

After an hour and three quarters he produced his first break point of the match but Djokovic, with an obvious change of game plan in a bid to shorten the points, expertly snuffed it out with a big serve and an immaculate volley.

Medvedev had set point on the Djokovic serve but another volley at the net dealt with that, and when tie-break slipped away from the 27-year-old, the match soon followed as Djokovic moved level with Margaret Court’s record of major titles.

“The second set was the best set I played and I didn’t win it,” said Russian third seed Medvedev. “So that’s why it’s normal that the match went that way, because first and third he was kind of better. The second, if I would win it, maybe it could have been a different game.

“Yeah, that’s how life is and how tennis is. So I’m going to try to be better next time.”

US Open No 4 and 24 titles: Novak Djokovic’s incredible grand slam record

08:21 , Lawrence Ostlere

A closer look at Novak Djokovic’s grand slam record:

US Open No 4 and 24 titles: Novak Djokovic’s incredible grand slam record

Djokovic wins slam No 24 – and he’s not done yet

07:07 , Lawrence Ostlere

Djokovic has no intention of passing the torch to the next generation just yet, the 36-year-old Serb proving age is just a number by becoming the oldest man in the Open Era to hoist the US Open trophy.

With Roger Federer retired and the oft-injured Rafa Nadal ready to call it quits after next season, the days of the ‘Big Three’ are long gone but Djokovic - the final member of that triumvirate - reminded fans in New York that he is far from finished.

His 6-3 7-6(5) 6-3 victory over Russian Daniil Medvedev brought him not only a fourth Flushing Meadows title but a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam crown, and Djokovic wants more.

“Occasionally asking myself, why do I need this still at this stage after all I have done, you know? How long do I want to keep going? I do have these questions in my head, of course,” said Djokovic.

“Knowing that I play at such a high level still and I win the biggest tournaments in this sport, yeah, I don’t want to get rid of this sport or I don’t want to leave this sport if I’m still at the top.”

Djokovic lucky to have the greatest rivals, says coach Ivanisevic

06:56 , Lawrence Ostlere

Novak Djokovic has been fortunate to have opponents like Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal to push him during his career, his coach Goran Ivanisevic said on Sunday after the 36-year-old claimed the US Open title for a 24th grand slam crown.

The ‘Big Three’ dominated men’s tennis over the last two decades with a collective 66 Grand Slam titles between them but Djokovic is now clear of the retired Federer (20) and Nadal (22), who is expected to call time on his career next year.

“He’s a winner,” former Wimbledon champion Ivanisevic told reporters. “He’s the guy who is motivating himself.

“He had luck to have guys like Nadal and Federer, they came before him, so they pushed each other.

“When you tell him he can’t do something, it’s even worse. Then he’s going to show you that he can do it. No excuses. He always tries to find a way to win, to fight, even when he’s not feeling well, injured, not injured.”

Ivanisevic, who has been coaching Djokovic since 2019, said he considered the Serb’s US Open triumph - which put him level with Margaret Court with the most major singles titles - as “the biggest achievement in sporting history”.

Novak Djokovic celebrates US Open title and 24th grand slam

03:00 , Jack Rathborn

Magnificent Novak Djokovic wins US Open and record-equalling 24th grand slam title

02:00 , Jack Rathborn

Novak Djokovic secured his 24th grand slam title and became the oldest US Open champion in the Open era after a gruelling victory over Daniil Medvedev.

The 36-year-old Serbian, who is back up to world number one, beat third seed Medvedev 6-3 7-6 (5) 6-3 for a fourth Flushing Meadows crown.

The match hinged on a marathon second set lasting 104 minutes, which was longer than both players’ entire first-round matches.

Djokovic won it after a tie-break to move 2-0 up and finally break Medvedev’s spirit, going on to gain a measure of revenge after the Russian denied him the calendar grand slam in the final here two years ago.

The win also moved him level with Margaret Court’s record of major titles, although really that is a statistical irrelevance given the obvious difference in the level and depth of competition between now and the 1960s.

Of more importance to Djokovic is his record against his peers; he is now two clear of Rafael Nadal’s 22 grand slam crowns and four ahead of Roger Federer, who declared on 20 last year.

Magnificent Novak Djokovic wins US Open and record-equalling 24th grand slam

Novak Djokovic explains Kobe Bryant tribute after winning US Open

01:38 , Jack Rathborn

Novak Djokovic paid tribute to Kobe Bryant after winning a record-equalling 24th grand slam singles title at the US Open.

The Serbian defeated Daniil Medvedev in straight sets (6-3, 7-6, 6-3) to level Margaret Court’s 50-year record.

And immediately after the victory, Djokovic revealed a t-shirt in tribute to the legendary basketball player, who died in a helicopter crash in 2020.

“I thought about doing this t-shirt a few days ago,” Djokovic explained. “I didn’t share it with anybody. Kobe was a close friend of mine, we chatted a lot, about the winner’s mentality.

Novak Djokovic explains Kobe Bryant tribute after winning US Open

Novak Djokovic explains Kobe Bryant tribute

01:02 , Jack Rathborn

“I thought about doing this t-shirt a few days ago,” Djokovic explains. “I didn’t share it with anybody. Kobe was a close friend of mine, we chatted a lot, about the winner’s mentality.

“When I was struggling with an injury and working my way back. He was one of the people I relied on the most.

“Any counsel, advice... In a friendly way. What happened, his passing, it hurt me deeply. I thought 24, the jersey he wore to become a Lakers legend. It could be a nice symbolic thing to do for him.”

Novak Djokovic reacts to winnng record-equalling 24th grand slam title

01:01 , Jack Rathborn

“If I knew it was your anniversary, maybe I choose a different result,” adds Djokovic.

Daniil has been kind to me, since you were a junior, 14-15 years old. It’s nice to see the evolution.

“There’s more to achieve. You will win more slams, no doubt.

“He has the most authentic personality, you’re the best. Never change.”

Novak Djokovic reacts to winnng record-equalling 24th grand slam title

Monday 11 September 2023 00:57 , Jack Rathborn

“I don’t know where to start, it means the world to me [to win 24 titles], I’m living my childhood dream,” Djokovic says.

“To compete at the highest level in the sport that gave me so much after so much adversity, growing up in the 90s, a couple of wars. It was very expensive, not affordable.

“It was quite a choice, incredible resilience, belief, all these years. My wife, my kids, my team, this is your trophy as much as mine. I love you.

“To make history in this sport is remarkable. It’s special. In every meaning. It’s hard to describe. I had a childhood dream at eight to win Wimbledon and be the best player in the world.

“New goals... I never imagined I’d be here talking about 24 slams. I didn’t know it would be the reality. But I thought I had a chance over the last few years, why not grab it?”

Daniil Medvedev reacts to US Open final defeat to Novak Djokovic

Monday 11 September 2023 00:53 , Jack Rathborn

“Congrats to you and your team, I feel like I had not a bad career, I have 24 titles and you have 24 slams,” Medvedev says.

“I was here two years ago when I won, what a great anniversary gift for my wife. It’s funny, because dates usually change, but today is the anniversary, I was like, ‘come on, one more time’.

“From one side, I can say, I beat Novak in a slam final, the pinnacle of my career, I played five finals against them and I won one.

“I said in Australia, but I say it again, first we met when I was 500th in the world. He was kind to me, nothing special, but a normal person.

“He still does, nothing changed. Something great about a person you can say.”

US Open final: Djokovic defeats (6-3, 7-6, 6-3) Medvedev - Game, Set, Match and Championship!

Monday 11 September 2023 00:45 , Jack Rathborn

Djokovic wears a new Lacoste jacket with ‘24’ on the chest.

He also displays a t-shirt with ‘Mamba Forever’ in tribute to Kobe Bryant and the legendary basketball player’s No 24 on the back.

US Open final: Djokovic defeats (6-3, 7-6, 6-3) Medvedev - Game, Set, Match and Championship!

Monday 11 September 2023 00:44 , Jack Rathborn

The statistics of the match show the key was largely at the net.

Djokovic won 37/44 to Medvedev’s 16/22.

US Open final: Djokovic defeats (6-3, 7-6, 6-3) Medvedev - Game, Set, Match and Championship!

Monday 11 September 2023 00:34 , Jack Rathborn

Djokovic slowing things down now, taking a few more steps between points.

Now two points away, 30-15. But another double fault slows his sprint to the title, 30-30.

Another long rally, but Medvedev goes long with the backhand down the line... It’s championship point!

Djokovic will move to his second serve, but it doesn’t matter as Medvedev plants it into the net, a friendly embrace at the net.

24. Grand. Slam. Titles. Amazing.

US Open final: Djokovic *5-3 Medvedev (6-3, 7-6)

Monday 11 September 2023 00:28 , Jack Rathborn

Now then, what does Medvedev have left? Djokovic jumping up with the backhand return.

Then a smash from the baseline, a drop shot that has Medvedev scrambling and the Russian collides with the net. 0-15.

Medvedev with a crushing first serve, some venom in that one, 15-30.

Magic! Both men at their limits, another incredible rally. Djokovic is left in the splits and on his front after Medvedev’s magnificent get. He then puts one away at the net to move to game point. He deserves this game, 6-2 would be a harsh conclusion.

And he moves to 3-5 with a booming serve. Djokovic to serve for the championship.

US Open final: Djokovic 5-2* Medvedev (6-3, 7-6)

Monday 11 September 2023 00:27 , Jack Rathborn

Ruthless from Djokovic here.

A second serve there at 40-0, but it matters little, Medvedev still going for winners, but he can’t find his range. 5-2 and he’s now one game away.

US Open final: Djokovic *4-2 Medvedev (6-3, 7-6)

Monday 11 September 2023 00:23 , Jack Rathborn

Tim Henman is raving about Djokovic’s ability to shift direction in the rally.

That backhand winner zips past the Russian, who can barely turn back to look at what he’s contending with here.

It’s a break back after the break back. 4-2.

US Open final: Djokovic 3-2* Medvedev (6-3, 7-6)

Monday 11 September 2023 00:17 , Jack Rathborn

Medvedev still dancing around his backhand to launch an impressive forehand to Djokovic’s backhand side.

Djokovic then unable to loop a forehand back inside the line. 15-30.

And suddenly, another double fault! Remarkable timing, a sniff at a break back for Medvedev, 15-40.

Silence! Nobody can quite believe it, a gift from Djokovic and Medvedev is back in this set, and perhaps the match.

US Open final: Djokovic *3-1 Medvedev (6-3, 7-6)

Monday 11 September 2023 00:13 , Jack Rathborn

Medvedev now looks tired and perhaps a little sorry for himself, he’s break point down.

Djokovic jumps on the second serve and then dictates the rally from that moment onwards.

Medvedev going long and that is surely that?

US Open final: Djokovic 2-1* Medvedev (6-3, 7-6)

Monday 11 September 2023 00:10 , Jack Rathborn

That was machine-like from Djokovic, no let-up, he moves one clear and it gets just that little bit harder for Medvedev.

As we approach the three-hour mark, both men look noticeably fatigued.

But Medvedev will have to dig that little bit deeper to salvage this match.

US Open final: Djokovic *1-1 Medvedev (6-3, 7-6)

Monday 11 September 2023 00:05 , Jack Rathborn

A lovely moment at the start of the third game. Medvedev slips, grazing his left elbow.

Djokovic hurdles the net and offers him an arm up, though he declines. 15-15.

US Open final: Djokovic *1-1 Medvedev (6-3, 7-6)

Monday 11 September 2023 00:04 , Jack Rathborn

Djokovic is the all-time leader in grand slam history for reaching the final.

He’s played in 72 grand slams and is in his 36th grand slam final. Remarkable.

Medvedev is alive! Sprinting to the net and planting a whipped forehand crosscourt to move to 40-0 and that’s a game to love.

Both men clearly taking a breather after that gruelling second set.

US Open final: Djokovic 1-0* Medvedev (6-3, 7-6)

Monday 11 September 2023 00:01 , Jack Rathborn

Djokovic injury update: It looks like general fatigue, as the Serbian is stretching both legs and doing a series of lunges before serving.

A bit more zip on those serves, it’s straightforward enough. You would hope that isn’t a trend or maybe the game will be over rather quickly.

US Open final: Djokovic 0-0 Medvedev (6-3, 7-6)

Sunday 10 September 2023 23:57 , Jack Rathborn

Medvedev is getting some serious massage therapy on that left shoulder. He looks in some pain, real anguish across his face.

But the fresh t-shirt is on, a new wristband, can he rally in the third?

US Open final: Djokovic 7-6 Medvedev (6-3) - SET!

Sunday 10 September 2023 23:50 , Jack Rathborn

The backhand is relentless, crosscourt, just peppering Medvedev, who would not break for so long.

The Russian was begging him to go down the line, but he wouldn’t and it paid off. 5-5.

And suddenly Djokovic has set point out of nowhere, in a tiebreak where he’s barely held on.

SET! He’s done it, remarkable resilience from the Serbian, and Medvedev looks crushed. 2-0 and now within one set of that magical 24th slam title.

US Open final: Djokovic 6-6 Medvedev (6-3) - tiebreak

Sunday 10 September 2023 23:42 , Jack Rathborn

Djokovic, with 23 written on his trainers, steps into the backhand cross-court, but that nets. The 18th unforced error of the set, Medvedev only has 15.

2-0 to the Russian. The mini-break is there. It’s 3-1 to Medvedev and he smashes into the net, could that be costly? He still leads 3-2, now for Djokovic to serve.

And a booming first serve just when he needs it, Djokovic pulls level, 3-3. Both men take a drink.

Another exhibition in the extraordinary, Djokovic unable to return the drop shot with another, as the ball spins wide. 5-4 to Medvedev.

US Open final: Djokovic 6-6* Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 23:39 , Jack Rathborn

This game lives on! Djokovic spurns a third game point. A drop shot fizzes off the racket, but won’t reach the net. A gasp from the crowd. Back to deuce we go.

And back to the serve out wide goes Djokovic. Advantage Djokovic. Medvedev must sort that out, it’s almost a get out of jail free card for the Serbian. He’s won 23/25 when coming to the net.

GAME! We go to the tie breaker.

US Open final: Djokovic *5-6 Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 23:33 , Jack Rathborn

A change of angle from Medvedev! Down the line with the backhand, he has set point, stunning!

Serve, volley, rinse, repeat. Break point saved. Deuce 2.

Another epic rally, this time Medvedev crumbles, and we have game point.

These guys are averaging 6.4 shots per rally. If in doubt, Djokovic will kick it out wide on the deuce side of the court. Advantage Djokovic.

US Open final: Djokovic *5-6 Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 23:28 , Jack Rathborn

And Medvedev has the first point of the game!

Djokovic with the drop shot, but he can’t get it high enough and the languid frame of the Russian is good enough to reach and put that ball away.

Djokovic, at 30-30, is stretching out his left hip flexor after losing the point. Is this a serious issue all of a sudden?

But no, serve and volley out wide, 108mph, the forehand volley at the net just works. But Djokovic double faults once again, his fourth of the set. Deuce.

US Open final: Djokovic *5-6 Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 23:26 , Jack Rathborn

You cannot believe this, it is Djokovic at his absolute best and it’s one of the most incredible rallies you will ever see. Djokovic is pleased with himself, too, ‘are you not entertained?’ His box rise in delight too.

But just like that Medvedev puts together two fine first serves and dispatches the game, he’s secured at least a tie break. Djokovic to serve to stay in the second set.

US Open final: Djokovic 5-5* Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 23:22 , Jack Rathborn

And now a row with his box, some choice words. But the focus is incredible, despite evidently being upset with something, Djokovic flicks the switch and dispatches the next point to move back to 30-30.

And Djokovic is bending down and stretching a little after losing that point, Medvedev rushed to the net and held his nerve. Game point.

US Open final: Djokovic 5-5* Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 23:16 , Jack Rathborn

A hop and a skip, Medvedev plants the backhand deep towards Djokovic’s backhand side, then rushes to the net, the volley is perfectly fine.

But Djokovic hammers his own backhand through the Russian’s defence, which has to be demoralising after executing a smart change-up to his strategy.

Djokovic squanders a game point after Medvedev expertly fetches a pair of smart backhands. No game is seemingly save despite two to three game or break points for these guys.

GAME! Djokovic is now talking to the crowd again, a set lasting an hour and 11 minutes so far. 5-5.

US Open final: Djokovic *4-5 Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 23:09 , Jack Rathborn

Djokovic, understandably, off to a slow start to start this game, after his heroics in the last game. His box look to do a little in-game coaching.

Medvedev races to 40-0 though, just what is needed after squandering a glorious chance to break. This would move him to within a game of the set.

And he does, that was two minutes 23 seconds. The game before? 12 minutes and 12 seconds.

US Open final: Djokovic 4-4* Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 23:04 , Jack Rathborn

Break point coming up for Medvedev...

A moan from Djokovic after a late let call from the umpire. Then the smash from Medvedev, is this his moment?

NO! An astonishing shot from Djokovic after Medvedev returns down the line, but the Serbian picks it up on the half-volley and clips it over the net across court.

He lauds it too, demanding applause from the crowd. Sublime.

And another! This time mid-court, it’s a backhand sliced drop shot that dies immediately after the first bounce. It’s cruel, Medvedev meeting Djokovic’s best at the worst possible time. HOLD! Matthew McConaughey is on his feet.

US Open final: Djokovic *3-4 Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 22:59 , Jack Rathborn

Djokovic suddenly showing visible signs of fatigue and frustration as Medvedev, leading 4-3, brings him to deuce.

That was an 88mph second serve, which caught Medvedev by surprise.

But now a double fault, two apiece in this set and 5-2 to Medvedev overall. This is out of character and if Djokovic can hold, it would be remarkable, a gift for Medvedev as the Serbian slips, netting to go to deuce three.

US Open final: Djokovic 3-3* Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 22:50 , Jack Rathborn

Now it’s Medvedev’s turn to win an epic rally! Djokovic is on his back, he can’t believe it after dumping a backhand into the net.

Absolutely exhausting tennis this, and Djokovic collapsing is relatable with most of the crowd. Now game point again for the Russian, but Djokovic buries a backhand winner, and it’s deuce again!

US Open final: Djokovic 3-3* Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 22:43 , Jack Rathborn

The Medvedev serve has been on point in the second set, which is setting up some tasty rallies.

Djokovic with the most majestic, sliced backhand drop shot. It’s perfection!

Now Djokovic has won 10/11 points when the rally goes over nine shots. That’s the formula then.

We’re at deuce, Medvedev wants a break, wiping his brow. He finds the first serve, but here we go again, deep into the rally.

And it’s long! A sloppy backhand, whipped long from Medvedev. Break point.

US Open final: Djokovic *2-3 Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 22:39 , Jack Rathborn

One hour and 19 minutes into this contest, Djokovic finding some resistance in Medvedev now after a rocky start.

The Russian is 3-2 up.

US Open final: Djokovic *1-2 Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 22:33 , Jack Rathborn

Goran Ivanisevic looking on without much emotion, Djokovic in control but Medvedev starting to find his feet.

A mesmerising rally brings the crowd to its feet, 30-0 with the players exchanging drop shots at the end before the 27th stroke was Djokovic’s lob.

US Open final: Djokovic *1-2 Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 22:27 , Jack Rathborn

Now this is a crucial moment in the match, 30-30, on Medvedev’s serve.

Djokovic’s variety, slicing at different speeds, is causing problems.

But that’s a big serve from the Russian to move to break point. And a hold, impressive composure.

US Open final: Djokovic 1-1* Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 22:22 , Jack Rathborn

Djokovic able to cope with the pressure after falling behind in the second set, he’s out to a 30-0 lead.

And in a hurry, Djokovic has his first hold to love of the contest.

US Open final: Djokovic *0-1 Medvedev (6-3)

Sunday 10 September 2023 22:18 , Jack Rathborn

It’s a nervy opener for Medvedev, and the rallies continue to sap the energy of the Russian.

A heavy cross-court forehand from Djokovic makes Medvedev crack, deuce.

Brilliant, the sprint from Medvedev and Djokovic aims a deep, looping backhand, but at full stretch the Russian makes the volley at the net. He holds not long after and now takes a lead in a set for the first time in the match.

US Open final: Djokovic 6-3 Medvedev - 1st set statistics

Sunday 10 September 2023 22:12 , Jack Rathborn

Winners: Djokovic 12-8 Medvedev

First serve points won (%): Djokovic 81-73 Medvedev

Second serve points won (%): Djokovic 53-33 Medvedev

US Open final: Djokovic 6-3 Medvedev - SET

Sunday 10 September 2023 22:05 , Jack Rathborn

Djokovic very calm out there now, not rising to some emotional moments from his opponent. At least not yet.

And Djokovic sends Medvedev so wide he’s barely in shot, the return is dumped into the net.

The Russian is frustrated and unable to dictate these points on the Serbian’s serve.

POINT OF THE MATCH! Djokovic and Medvedev put on a show and it’s the Serbian’s looping backhand that forces his opponent to break after an intense exchange. A third set point coming up...

GAME. SET. Medvedev just a little sloppy when it matters. When Djokovic wins the opening set in 73 matches at the US Open, he’s won 72. Only Stan Wawrinka has denied him, back in 2016.

US Open final: Djokovic *5-3 Medvedev

Sunday 10 September 2023 22:00 , Jack Rathborn

That’s delightful from Medvedev, the legs cross over but the backhand barely creeps over the net, down the line and brushing the line, Djokovic can’t even sniff that one.

But Djokovic grinds him down again, set point: A Medvedev forehand, and an attempted winner, forces Djokovic into a backhand on the spin, and it’s drifting back and lands out.

And it’s an impressive hold, Djokovic to serve for the set.

US Open final: Djokovic 5-2* Medvedev

Sunday 10 September 2023 21:52 , Jack Rathborn

There have been 32 minutes in this final, the winners count: Djokovic leads 10-5.

There’s real strategy in this game, with Djokovic slicing to the Russian’s forehand and picking his way around the court, two game points.

A nice change of pace from Medvedev forces a lazy, long forehand to go out from Djokovic. The Russian has been effective against Djokovic’s serve, winning two points at least in every game so far.

But another tidy hold from Djokovic, who is probably operating in second gear right now.

US Open final: Djokovic *4-2 Medvedev

Sunday 10 September 2023 21:51 , Jack Rathborn

Daniil Medvedev is looking to become the first player to beat the top two seeds and go on to win the US Open since 1975.

Being the only player to beat Novak Djokovic on hard courts in 2023 may help his cause.

So will that hold, 4-2.

US Open final: Djokovic 4-1* Medvedev

Sunday 10 September 2023 21:42 , Jack Rathborn

Real tension here, Djokovic in a little hole once more, second serve and 15-30.

But you have to say that is delightful, rushing to the net after the kick serve, and then the deep volley before an easy chance to put the point away with Medvedev stranded well behind the baseline.

The Djokovic fist pump is already out and visible on back-to-back points, he knows this is crucial to the first set, maintaining that break.

But don’t write off Medvedev, a floaty, backhand whipped down the light as the Russian skipped away from where he sent the ball, Djokovic just admires that one. Deuce.

And Djokovic holds, 4-1.

US Open final: Djokovic *3-1 Medvedev

Sunday 10 September 2023 21:37 , Jack Rathborn

This is better from Medvedev, that slinging backhand is forcing Djokovic out wide and to move more.

He is back in the set after holding, 1-3.

US Open final: Djokovic 3-0* Medvedev

Sunday 10 September 2023 21:30 , Jack Rathborn

Djokovic is contending with Medvedev’s deep return, and opts to come forward quickly towards the net.

It’s working too, he puts away a backhand volley deep, pulling back a 0-30 hole.

And that’s composure, too, just as Medvedev looked to bite back immediately. A hold and a three-game lead.

US Open final: Djokovic *2-0 Medvedev

Sunday 10 September 2023 21:27 , Jack Rathborn

This has been a statement, Djokovic races to three break points and then Medvedev folds, it’s a break to love!

Stunning, and the worst possible start for the Russian.

The crowd roar in delight, Djokovic looks extremely focused.

US Open final: Djokovic 1-0* Medvedev

Sunday 10 September 2023 21:23 , Jack Rathborn

It’s a 19-shot rally to start!

So get the coffee or tea ready, we could be in for a late one tonight, the Serbian wins it, but this could be a theme!

Majestic hitting from both and Djokovic puts away a fine backhand winner to move to 30-15. This will be a real battle, that was 23 strokes.

US Open final: Djokovic v Medvedev

Sunday 10 September 2023 21:19 , Jack Rathborn

Here we go then, both Djokovic and Medvedev have finishes their warm-ups and return to their chairs...

Wheelchair triumph for Hewett

Sunday 10 September 2023 21:14 , Ben Fleming

Some good news for British tennis fans as Hewett wins his fourth US Open wheelchair men’s singles title, triumphing over his doubles partner and fellow Brit, Gordon Reid, in the final:

Will history repeat itself?

Sunday 10 September 2023 21:04 , Ben Fleming

Medvedev got the better of Djokovic back in 2021 to win his first Grand Slam however, it’s the Serbian who has the better in the head-to-head winning nine of the 14 matches the duo have contested.

Most recently, however, it was the Russian who prevailed, winning 6-4 6-4 in the semi-finals of the 2023 Dubai Tennis Championships.

Gabriela Dabrowski and Erin Routliffe win US Open women’s doubles title

Sunday 10 September 2023 20:51 , Jack Rathborn

US Open 2023 final: Medvedev expecting ‘different’ Djokovic

Sunday 10 September 2023 20:40 , Jack Rathborn

“I think the only way I can use [the 2021 final] is thinking that Novak, when he loses, he’s never the same after. He’s different. It’s just a different mentality,” Medvedev said.

“That’s why he has 23 Grand Slams, many Masters 1000s [titles] and weeks at number one,” he added.

“So I have to use it knowing that he’s going to be 10 times better than he was that day, and if I want to still beat him, I have to be 10 times better than I was that day. That’s what I’m going to try to do.

“Novak is going to be his best version on Sunday, and I have to be the best-ever version of myself if I want to try to beat him.”

Fabio Fognini imitates Novak Djokovic/Ben Shelton celebration

Sunday 10 September 2023 20:25 , Jack Rathborn

Novak Djokovic immitating Ben Shelton’s celebration appears to have caught on around the tennis world.

Here is Fabio Fognini’s version after Italy’s Davis Cup team captain Filippo Volandri failed to make the call.

US Open 2023: Carlos Alcaraz on mistakes against Daniil Medvedev

Sunday 10 September 2023 20:05 , Jack Rathborn

“He played a really, really great game. I couldn’t find solutions,” Alcaraz said. “I thought that right now I am a better player [who can] find solutions when the match is not going in the right direction for you. But after this match, I’m going to change my mind. I’m not mature enough to handle these kind of matches. So I have to learn from that.

“He played with more speed in his shots. I think the running forehand was great today. Probably with the slice in the previous matches helped me a lot to find my own game, but today I couldn’t.

“He found great directions with his shots, no mistakes, great serve today. 10 out of 10, as he said… He’s one of the best returners on the Tour. That obviously is amazing how he can return from the back of the court really deep and really powerful. When I do serve and volley, he always finds the passing shot from from his house (laughter).”

US Open 2023 final: Novak Djokovic on creating history

Sunday 10 September 2023 19:45 , Jack Rathborn

“I understand every time in a Grand Slam final, it’s another shot for history,” said Djokovic. “I’m aware of it, and of course I’m very proud of it, but I don’t have much time, nor do I allow myself to reflect on these things or think about the history too much in this sense.

“When I did that in the past, like the 2021 final here, I was maybe overwhelmed with the occasion and the opportunity, and I underperformed.

“I don’t want this to happen again, and I’ll try to just focus on what needs to be done and tactically prepare myself for that match.”

US Open 2023 final: Daniil Medvedev on race to end year as world No 1

Sunday 10 September 2023 19:35 , Jack Rathborn

“I think the only way I can use [the 2021 final] is thinking that Novak, when he loses, he’s never the same after. He’s different. It’s just a different mentality,” said Medvedev after dumping Carlos Alcaraz out. “That’s why he has 23 Grand Slams, [all those] Masters 1000s and weeks at No. 1.

“So I have to use it knowing that he’s going to be 10 times better than he was that day, and I have to be, if I want to still beat him, 10 times better than I was that day. That’s what I’m going to try to do.”

US Open 2023 final: Djokovic v Medvedev head-to-head record

Sunday 10 September 2023 19:25 , Jack Rathborn

Novak Djokovic has a 9-5 record all-time against Daniil Medvedev. The Serbian was beaten in their last meeting though, a straight sets, hard court defeat to the Russian in Dubai.

That snapped a four-game win streak for Djokovic, who will hope to break the 1-1 grand slam final record between the pair.

After Djokovic’s win in the Australian Open final two years ago, Medvedev squared the record in New York later that year.

Aryna Sabalenka reacts to US Open final defeat

Sunday 10 September 2023 19:15 , Jack Rathborn

Aryna Sabalenka’s bid to bookend her year with a second Grand Slam title fell apart in the U.S. Open final on Saturday but the incoming world number one said she will get both comfort and motivation from her lofty perch atop the world rankings.

Sabalenka will overtake Poland’s Iga Swiatek when the new rankings are updated on Monday and the Belarusian admitted her new status will help ease the sting of her U.S. Open final loss to American teenager Coco Gauff.

“Yeah, that’s why probably, that’s why I’m not super depressed right now,” Sabalenka said when asked to reflect on becoming world number one for the first time. “I’m definitely going for a drink tonight if I’m allowed to say that,” a smiling Sabalenka added. “Yes, we are athletes, but sometimes we are drinking, but not much.”

The 25-year-old Sabalenka was the second seed in New York and dropped just one set in her march to the final where she took control early and broke Gauff three times en route to grabbing the first set. But sixth seed Gauff flashed her remarkable speed to extend rallies and managed to force a deciding set where her game reached another level and proved too much for Sabalenka.

“I was overthinking and I was missing quite, like, not easy balls, but the balls I shouldn’t be missing,” said Sabalenka. “Today it was more about -- not more about, it was unforced errors was a lot in the second set, and that’s where I gave her believe that she can win this match. I got overemotional after the second set.”

Coco Gauff reacts to US Open triumph

Sunday 10 September 2023 19:05 , Jack Rathborn

“The whole time I was saying to myself, ‘Oh, my goodness, how is this real?’” Gauff told reporters.

“When I sat down after hugging them back before the ceremony, it felt real in that moment, but when I was going to hug them it didn’t. I almost forgot to shake the ref’s hand. It was a crazy moment.

“People were putting a lot of pressure on me to win. I felt that at 15 I had to win a slam at 15. I felt like I had a time limit on when I should win one, and if I won one after a certain age it wouldn’t be an achievement.

“Yeah, it’s just crazy the amount of things that I have heard or seen about myself, but I’m really happy of how I’ve been able to manage it all.”

Carlos Alcaraz withdraws from Spain’s Davis Cup team

Sunday 10 September 2023 18:55 , Jack Rathborn

Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz has pulled out from this month’s Davis Cup to recover following his U.S. Open semi-final loss, the world number one said on Saturday.

Alcaraz, the defending champion at New York, exited this year’s final major after suffering a defeat to third seed Daniil Medvedev of Russia on Friday. Alcaraz, 20, will be replaced by Albert Ramos-Vinolas in the Spain squad.

“I was really looking forward to playing for Spain at the Davis Cup in Valencia, but I have to listen to my body after a very long tour,” Alcaraz said on messaging platform X, formerly known as Twitter. “I need to stop and rest, physically and mentally. The schedule is very demanding; there is still a long season ahead, and now it’s time to recharge my batteries. Best of luck to the Spanish team! I will be supporting you strongly! Let’s go!”

The 35-year-old Ramos-Vinolas, currently ranked 88th, has been called by captain David Ferrer, who won the Davis Cup as a player on three occasions with Spain, lifting the trophy in 2008, 2009 and 2011, as well as a runners-up finish in 2012.

“Ramos was already called up for last year’s Final eight in Malaga. This year he has been a finalist in Gstaad and a semi-finalist in Cordoba, as well as reaching the quarter-finals in Rio de Janeiro and the ATP Challenger in Parma,” the country’s tennis federation (RFET) said in a statement. “In Davis Cup he has played five Davis Cup ties with a record of six wins and only two defeats.”

Sixteen teams will compete in the group stage from Sept. 12-17 across Bologna, Manchester, Valencia and Split. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the knock-out stage from Nov. 21-26 in Malaga.

Spain will play Serbia, the Czech Republic and South Korea in Group C in Valencia.

Daniil Medvedev warns against scorching New York temperatures at US Open

Sunday 10 September 2023 18:35 , Jack Rathborn

Daniil Medvedev has warned that one player “is going to die” given the intense humidity and soaring temperatures during the US Open.

New York is in the midst of a heatwave and in the middle of the day on Wednesday, when Medvedev was taking on Andrey Rublev in an all-Russian quarter-final, temperatures reached 33C amid humid conditions.

In the third set, with Medvedev two sets up, the outspoken world No 3 spoke directly into the camera, saying: “One player is going to die, and then you’re going to see...”

And the Russian added: “This and the Tokyo Olympic Games [were the worst conditions ever], it was brutal.

“The only good thing I see in these conditions is that both suffer. It’s tough for both of us.

“There were ups and downs but that’s so normal. At the end of the third set I kind of couldn’t see the ball anymore. I kind of played with sensations.

“It seemed like he couldn’t run anymore, but he kept coming back. Super tough to win.”

Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev add chapter to long journey

Sunday 10 September 2023 18:25 , Jack Rathborn

Novak Djokovic met Daniil Medvedev when the Russian was just a prospect at 19 years of age.

After Medvedev denied Djokovic the calendar slam in 2021, the Serbian will be out for revenge.

If Medvedev could win another final against perhaps the greatest to ever do it, his legacy would improve to bring him closer to the second tier of the greats in this era, including Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka.

Daniil Medvedev knows he will need to produce perfect performance to win US Open

Sunday 10 September 2023 17:45 , Jack Rathborn

Daniil Medvedev knows he will have to be the “best-ever version” of himself if he is to win a second US Open title.

Medvedev rated himself a 12 out of 10 for his surprise semi-final victory over world number one and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.

Presumably the Russian third seed will have to crank that up to at least 13 if he is to deny Novak Djokovic a 24th grand-slam title.

“Against Novak, it’s always the same. He is always better than the previous time he plays,” said Medvedev.

Daniil Medvedev knows he will need to produce perfect performance to win US Open

Coco Gauff claims US Open title with incredible comeback victory over Aryna Sabalenka

Sunday 10 September 2023 16:52 , Jack Rathborn

Coco Gauff fulfilled the script written for her as a 15-year-old by succeeding Serena Williams as America’s first teenage grand slam champion in more than 20 years.

Williams’ diamond-encrusted and star-studded departure from tennis at Flushing Meadows last year showcased the impact she has had on the sport over 25 years.

But it also left a big hole, particularly for tennis in the US, where a dearth of male success over the same period has seen its profile wane.

Now 12 months later, here is Gauff, taking over the baton in seamless fashion and poised to become one of the world’s biggest sporting stars.

Gauff claims US Open title with incredible comeback victory over Sabalenka

What time is the US Open men’s final and how can I watch it?

Sunday 10 September 2023 16:51 , Jack Rathborn

The men’s final is one of the most highly anticipated clashes of the entire US Open tournament, and will see Novak Djokovic take on Daniil Medvedev in a repeat of the 2021 final.

Alcaraz was the US Open defending champion and world number one, but he was beaten by Medvedev in four sets.

Djokovic did not compete in last year’s tournament due to the United States’ coronavirus vaccine requirements, but will want to add to his tally, against the 27-year-old Russian who beat him in straight sets two years ago.

Djokovic has 23 grand slams to his name, and if he can secure a 24th it would level Margaret Court’s record of singles titles.

What time is the US Open men’s final and how can I watch it?

US Open men’s final: Djokovic v Medvedev

Sunday 10 September 2023 15:53 , Jack Rathborn

Good afternoon and welcome to Indy Sport’s coverage of the US Open men’s singles final.

Novak Djokovic is aiming to tie up the all-time grand slam singles record of 24 titles with Margaret Court.

And standing in his way from yet more history is Daniil Medvedev, who denied us a rematch from the Wimbledon final this summer, shocking Carlos Alcaraz in four sets and returning to the stage of his greatest triumph.

Remember, the Russian defeated Djokovic in straight sets in the 2021 final and will hope lightning strikes twice tonight.

Join us for all the build-up to the big one, including analysis, game-by-game updates and reaction.

US Open final: Djokovic defeats (6-3, 7-6, 6-3) Medvedev

01:05 , Jack Rathborn