Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer put on a show Sunday night in the US Open final.

New York weather delayed the start time, putting the matchup of two all-time tennis greats under the lights, a fitting stage for two giant stars.

With the crowd firmly behind Federer, Djokovic was the last man standing, capping off his incredible year of tennis with a hard fought 4 set vcitory (6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4).

The 28 year old Djokovic didn't mind the crowd supporting the 34 year old Federer. Once the match was complete, he showed his support for Roger too.

"Just an incredible record and everything he has achieved," Djokovic said of Federer after the match. "Coming out, knowing you're playing the greatest player in the history of the game adds a little more pressure.

"Today, I was serving at 5-2 in the fourth set and Roger showed why he's a champion. I was forced to come up with some big serves. Obviously, it was a big relief when I saw the forehand return going out."

With the victory, Djokovic won his third major of 2015, and reached the final in the one he didn't take home (French Open). His 27-1 Grand Slam record is undeniably one of the great years for anyone in tennis history.

It's the second time in 5 years Novak won 3 of the 4 grand slams in a calendar year, but with his family by his side, 2015 has been most enjoyable.

"It's been an incredible season, next to the 2011 season, the best of my life," Djokovic said to the crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium in his on-court interview. "I'm enjoying it more as a husband and a father, and this makes it more sweeter. It's quite an incredible evening for me."

(Photo by Michael Heiman/Getty Images)
(Photo by Michael Heiman/Getty Images)
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With his 10th Major title, Djokovic climbs into 7th all-time, tying him with Bill Tilden.

Federer, 1st on the all-time list with 17, was his usual classy self after a tough defeat.

"Had a wonderful last two weeks," Federer said in his on-court interview. "Very pleased where my game's at. Being back in the finals is where you want to be. I enjoyed it. Congratulations, Novak, on another great win."

If anyone was thinking the 34 year old Federer was close to hanging it up, his recent play and final statement at the US Open should erase any chatter.

"Last thing," Federer said. "I'll see you guys next year."

Federer and Djokovic continue their storied rivalry as they've now met 42 times in their career, with the record even at 21-21. Djokovic leads the matchups in Majors 8 to 6.

 

 

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