With the U.S. Open title on the line, top-ranked Novak Djokovic is set to meet the second-ranked Rafael Nadal Monday at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York City.
Monday's championship match is Djokovic's and Nadal's record-setting 36th time facing off, in the Open-era, with Nadal leading the series 21-15 but Djokovic 11-6 on hardcourts.
Djokovic, this year's Australian Open winner, makes his return to the title match a year after losing to Andy Murray in the finals and two years after winning the U.S Open in 2011. Djokovic needed over 4 hours, however, to eliminate Switzerland's Stanislas Wawrinka in the semifinals (2-6, 7-6 (7-4), 3-6, 6-3, 6-4) to make his fourth consecutive U.S. Open finals appearance.
"I just tried to hang on and fight and be mentally tough and believe all the way through I can actually win," said Djokovic.
Nadal is having a successful season despite missing seven months tending to injuries, going 59-3, winning nine titles, and reaching the finals of 12 out of the last 13 events.
Nadal had an easier time in the semifinals defeating France's Richard Gasquet 6-4, 7-6 (7-1), 6-2 and realizes that Djokovic will present different challenges in the championship match.
"Novak is an amazing competitor. His results say he is one of best players I have ever seen," said Nadal. "He's a great champion and it will be a tough final for me but I hope I will be ready for that."
Live Television Coverage
The 2013 U.S. Open men's finals coverage can be seen on CBS with coverage beginning 5:30 PM.
Live Stream (Online)
Live stream coverage can be seen on U.S. Open Live.
- Contribute to this Story:
- Send us a tip
- Send us a photo or video
- Suggest a correction
