US Open followers left aghast by Daniil Medvedev’s Nadal and Djokovic remark

Daniil Medvedev as soon as left the US Open crowd astounded as he praised Novak Djokovic on the expense of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. After profitable the 2021 US Open and securing his maiden Grand Slam title, Medvedev insisted Djokovic – who he defeated 6-4 6-4 6-4 – the ‘greatest’ participant in tennis historical past to the shock of the onlooking crowd.

Medvedev defeated Djokovic to disclaim the then-World No. 1 a twenty first main title, which might have seen him break the three-way tie between himself, Federer and Nadal – the trio referred to as the ‘Big Three’ who dominated tennis and are maybe the three best males’s gamers within the sport’s historical past.

After hoisting the trophy, Medvedev apologised to his Serbian rival for popping out on high. The Russian mentioned: “First of all I want to say sorry because we all know what he was going for today, what he has accomplished this year and throughout your career. I have never said this to anybody but I will say it right now. For me you are the greatest player in the history.”

Medvedev’s remark led to a puff across the courtroom, given Federer and Nadal are two of the preferred sportspeople in historical past. Their rivalry has been closely romanticised by tennis followers, with Djokovic seen as a gate-crashing pressure.

Known for his fiery but dominant performances on the courtroom, the all-conquering 36-year-old has clashed with followers all through his profession as he’s thought of the person defeating the beloved Federer and Nadal. The 23-time Grand Slam champion enjoys feeling the love from followers, however he usually additionally seems to get pleasure from being the pantomine villain at every occasion. 

While the love for Nadal and Federer has usually gotten below his pores and skin, Djokovic obtained vocal help inside Arthur Ashe Stadium. The help left him emotional as he didn’t halt Medvedev. 

“Thank you so much, guys,” Djokovic mentioned. “I would like to start off by saying congratulations to Daniil. Amazing match, amazing tournament. If there is anyone that deserves a Grand Slam title right now it is you, so well done.

“To your team, you have an amazing team, you are one of the greatest guys on the tour, we get along very well. I wish you many more Grand Slams, many more majors to follow, and I am sure you will be on this stage again in the future.”