Novak Djokovic needed only three sets to beat Daniil Medvedev and capture the 2023 US Open trophy on Sunday. It marked Djokovic’s 24th Grand Slam title, matching the feat previously only achieved by Margaret Court in women’s singles.
This was the first win at Flushing Meadows for Djokovic since 2018 and fourth US Open title in his career. He also made the tournament’s finals six more times.
Medvedev was expected to present a tough challenge for Djokovic, considering how he easily dealt with the world’s No.1 Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-finals. The 27-year-old player also managed to beat Djokovic at the same stage in 2021 in a convincing fashion.
However, Djokovic made a strong start, rushing to a 3-0 lead in the first set and not allowing Medvedev to get comfortable. Medvedev managed to take the 36-year-old Serbian to a tie-break in the second set but didn’t have enough resolve to avoid a 0-2 hole.
In the third set, Djokovic sensed that Medvedev was at the ropes and proceeded to find another gear that allowed him to put an end to any comeback attempts.
“I never imagined that I would be here standing with you talking about 24 Slams. I never thought that would be the reality,” said Djokovic after the match. “But the last couple of years, I felt I have a chance, I have a shot for history, and why not grab it if it’s presented?”
