Djokovic Failed To Achieve Grand Slam This Year

Novak Djokovic (Twitter @atptour)

JAKARTA - Novak Djokovic's defeat in the US Open final saw him miss the 2021 calendar Grand Slam title, but the Serbian world number one is glad the pressure to chase perfection has finally come to an end.

Djokovic shed tears after his grueling bid - both physically and emotionally - to become the first man since 1969 to win four Grand Slams this year ended in a shock defeat to Russian second seed Daniil Medvedev.

"Relieved", said 34-year-old Djokovic when asked how he felt after the game.

"I'm glad it's over because the preparation for this tournament and everything that mentally, emotionally I had to deal with throughout the tournament in the last few weeks was overwhelming. There's a lot to deal with", Djokovic continued, quoted by Reuters on Monday.

This might not be the last time these two meet in a Grand Slam final.#USOpen pic.twitter.com/0NtbWk5nAn

— ATP Tour (@atptour) September 12, 2021

From the start, Djokovic was unable to match the level brought by Medvedev, who proved his mettle and got stronger as the match progressed save for some late tension as he tries to complete his first Grand Slam title.

Djokovic admits that time spent on the pitch this year has finally taken a toll and he feels a lack of energy.

Nothing but respect 🤝#USOpen pic.twitter.com/VUEQqCPX08

— ATP Tour (@atptour) September 12, 2021

"My foot wasn't there. I tried. I did my best. Yes, I made a lot of mistakes myself. I didn't have any – no really good serves", said Djokovic.

"If you play against someone like Medvedev who hits really well, aces, gets a lot of free points on his first serve, you are constantly feeling the pressure on your serve play".

"I'm subpar, to be honest. So it's been one of those unlucky days, eh, no match yet".

During the final, which also dashed hopes of a record 21st Grand Slam, emotions overtook the Serb who held a towel to his face and cried, overwhelmed by the support he received from the crowd.

Djokovic, who has yet to earn the same level of admiration given to rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, said the tears were the result of feelings he had never experienced before from a New York audience.

"The audience made me very special. They surprised me. I don't know, I wasn't expecting anything, but the amount of support, energy, and love I got from the audience is something I will remember forever", said Djokovic.

"I mean, that's the reason I cry. The emotion, the energy is so strong. I mean, as strong as winning a 21st Grand Slam. That's how I feel, to be honest. I feel very, very special", he added.