NEW YORK (AP) — After winning a point in the U.S. Open final, and bent on proving a point, Novak Djokovic leaped and roared and threw an uppercut, then glared at some of the thousands of spectators pulling for Roger Federer.
Following another point in that game, Djokovic nodded as he smiled toward the stands. And moments later, Djokovic shook his right arm, bloodied by an early fall, and screamed, “Yes! Yes!” to celebrate a missed forehand by Federer.
Djokovic appeared to be all alone out there in Arthur Ashe Stadium, trying to solve Federer while also dealing with a crowd loudly supporting the 17-time major champion. In the end, Djokovic handled everything in a thrill-a-minute final on a frenetic night, winning 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 to earn his second U.S. Open title, third major championship of the year and 10th Grand Slam trophy in all.
After winning her first Grand Slam title at age 33, while seeded 26th, by beating the woman who beat Serena Williams, Flavia Pennetta provided this U.S. Open full of surprises with one last twist.
After meeting her opponent, Roberta Vinci, at the net for a long hug after — both from the southern heel of Italy’s boot, they were childhood friends, then doubles partners and roommates as teens — Pennetta let Vinci in on a little secret that would soon be shared with the world.
Pennetta — who beat Vinci 7-6 (4), 6-2 — decided about a month ago she would be retiring after this season, and this would be her last appearance at Flushing Meadows.
Talk about going out on top.