NEW YORK: Serbia’s world number one Novak Djokovic will seek revenge for his 2021 US Open final loss to Daniil Medvedev aware victory that would also secure a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title.
The 36-year-old is again within reach of Margaret Court’s all-time record, two months after losing to Carlos Alcaraz in a five-set thriller at Wimbledon.
“I understand every time in a Grand Slam final, it’s another shot for history,” Djokovic said.
“I’m aware of it, and of course I’m very proud of it,” he added.
“But I don’t have much time, nor do I allow myself to reflect on these things or think about the history too much.
“When I did that in the past, like the 2021 final here, I was maybe overwhelmed with the occasion and the opportunity, and I underperformed.
Medvedev, 27, is through to his fifth Slam final – and third in New York – with his triumph in 2021 representing his only major title to date.
“I think the only way I can use [the 2021 final] is thinking that Novak, when he loses, he’s never the same after. He’s different. It’s just a different mentality,” Medvedev said.
“I don’t want this to happen again. I’ll try to just focus on what needs to be done and tactically prepare myself for that match.”
