Djokovic blows his big chance

The world number one beat Novak Djokovic 7-6 (7-4) 7-6 (7-2) 6-4 to win a fourth US Open title but it was far from straightforward, BBC Sport online reported Monday. 

Federer was a break down in each set, saved five set points in the first, two in the second, and three break points in the third.

In fact, even those stats tell only half the story - it would be just as accurate to say that Djokovic failed to take those chances.

He has had a fantastic year and been a breath of fresh air, turning the two-way battle for supremacy between Federer and Rafael Nadal into a three-man competition.

And his engaging personality completely won over New York in just a fortnight - something the tennis authorities will love as they try to sell their sport.

His game is, at the age of 20, already remarkable, with great power off both sides, a formidable serve and plenty of variety.

And he has the heart and passion required to one day win Grand Slams, as seen in his epic win over Radek Stepanek in round two.

But let's face it, when the opportunites presented themselves in his first Grand Slam final, Djokovic was not up to it.

However daunting an opponent Federer must be to see across the net, he was there for the taking on Sunday night.

But nerves got the better of the world number three and what should have been a four or five-set test became a victory in which Federer barely needed to get out of second gear.

Still, Djokovic clearly realises that, as he showed in his news conference after the final.

"I think I was mentally weaker at the important moments, and he was mentally stronger," said the Serb.

A brutally honest assesment and one that stands him in good stead to make amends when the Grand Slams roll around again next year.

by BBC Sport Online