ARTHUR ASHE STADIUM — I have seen Novak Djokovic cry on this court before.
It was five years ago, when he was one win away from a historic Grand Slam, winning all four majors in the calendar year. He was, however, being outplayed by Daniil Medvedev in the US Open final when, the stadium rose to chant his nickname in unison: “Nole, Nole, Nole”.
Djokovic, who began his career as the disruptor to the beloved Roger Federer-Rafael Nadal duopoly, had to work hard to win fans over. But that final in New York, although it still ended in defeat, was evidence that he had their hearts.
On that occasion, Djokovic cried tears of joy for something he had gained. Late on Sunday night, the 25-time major champion sobbed for something he had lost. The mind is willing – it always was – but the flesh has finally started to fail. The end is surely nigh.
Djokovic was given a huge ovation by the Arthur Ashe crowd as he left on Sunday night (Photo: Reuters)
