I was ready for battle with Roger Federer: US Open champ Djokovic

Novak Djokovic reacts after his victory over Roger Federer

New York: Novak Djokovic said he had come ready for Roger Federer's attacking game and his fervent home support after beating the Swiss to secure the US Open - his 10th Grand Slam title.


Novak Djokovic reacts after his victory over Roger Federer

Federer had swept aside six opponents without dropping a set en route to the final at Flushing Meadows, but his bid for an 18th major title was undone by Djokovic, who won 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4.

It means the World No 1 one has another US Open success to add to his first in 2011 and he moves just one short of Bjorn Borg in the Open era all-time list.

Federer on attack
The 28-year-old has enjoyed a superb season, winning three out of four Grand Slam finals, and he now sits seven short of Federer's record 17 major triumphs.


Novak Djokovic celebrates his victory by kissing his wife Jelena Djokovic. Pics/AFP

Federer stuck to his attacking guns in Arthur Ashe Stadium, hitting the net, releasing his rush-return and deploying as much variety whenever he possibly could.

But the Swiss was inefficient - converting just four of 23 break points - and eventually seemed helpless in the face of Djokovic's masterful defence.

"That's who Roger is - that's why he has won so many Grand Slam titles," Djokovic said.


Novak Djokovic celebrates with his coach Boris Becker

"I knew that coming to the court. I knew he's going to be aggressive. He's going to try to disrupt my rhythm, and he's going to put a lot of variety in his game. But I was ready for it. I was ready for the battle. That's what it was - three hours, 20 minutes. We pushed each other to the limit, as we always do.

'Ultimate challenge'
"It's an ultimate challenge that I have now, winning against Roger back to back finals in Wimbledon and here, US Open. It's tremendous. I'm really, really proud of it," he added.