FLUSHING MEADOWS – In the final match of the 2021 U.S. Open, history was denied. Novak Djokovic came in to Sunday’s championship hoping to pull off a once-in-a-generation feat. More than 20,000 fans filled Arthur Ashe Stadium to witness it. There was plenty of disappointment to go around.
In his 28th match at a major this year, one short of pulling off the calendar Grand Slam, which hadn't been executed since 1988, the 34-year-old Djokovic fell short. Or rather, he fell tall. The opponent on the other side of the net, Daniil Medvedev of Russia, played the match of his life, took advantage his opponent’s sluggishness, confounded Djokovic with his reach, his backhand and his serve, and thwarted history, winning 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.