Daniil Medvedev's horror moment in US Open final loss to Novak Djokovic

Daniil Medvedev was all class after losing to Novak Djokovic in the US Open final, but the Russian would be ruing one crucial opportunity that could have handed him the second set in New York. Despite a 6-3 7-6 (7-5) 6-3 straight-sets win for Djokovic, he and Medvedev put on a world class display of tennis in the final in front of an adoring crowd.

Djokovic now equals Australian Margaret Court's record of 24 grand slams as he moves two clear of Rafa Nadal in the men's tally. However, the match could have unfolded differently if Medvedev took his chances in the second set.

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The match was hanging in the balance on Arthur Ashe Stadium when Medvedev earned himself a break point at 6-5. Having forced Djokovic to the net, Medvedev was on the run but had the line open begging for a backhand winner to take the set.

Instead, Medvedev opted to hit it cross court, and Djokovic easily put away the volley and smiled, knowing he had escaped. Medvedev reacted in a way showing he knew the opportunity had gone.

The Serbian went on to eventually hold the game in a pivotal moment. The tiebreak was close, but a few unforced errors from Medvedev saw Djokovic take a two-set lead on his way to his 24th grand slam title.

Fans reacted to the brutal moment for Medvedev, which could have changed the momentum of the match. The set itself lasted 92 minutes and showcased the highest quality tennis from both players.

Djokovic employed a serving out-wide tactic against Medvedev in the final, which saw him come to the net to nullify the baseline rallies. This frustrated Medvedev who at one stage fumed at his team box because he didn't feel comfortable taking the ball down the line.

Novak Djokovic's lovely celebration with family

Djokovic's win means he exacted revenge on his Russian opponent, who beat him in the US Open final in 2021 to deny him the first calendar year Grand Slam in men's tennis since 1969. Djokovic was grateful for his success and showed it after running to his family following the victory.

"I don't know where to start - it means the world to me," Djokovic said in his victory speech. "I'm kind of repeating myself but I have to say it every time that I'm really living my childhood dream.

"To compete at the highest level in this sport that has given me and my family so much, coming from very difficult circumstances and adversities in the 90s, a couple of wars in our country, and being able to push through that. Especially my parents, giving a lot of sacrifices to support me to play. I love you, so thank you so much.

"To support me to play this sport; it is a very expensive sport. At that time (it was) very expensive, not accessible, not affordable, but I fell in love with it, this tennis. No one has played tennis in my family before so it was quite a choice, I must say. So everyone in my family - my wife, my children, my team, this is as much your trophy as mine."

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