Novak Djokovic was unable to finish off the Calendar Grand Slam on Sunday, and he became emotional as he saw the possible achievement slip away.
Djokovic lost in straight sets to Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 in the U.S. Open finals. Medvedev was the better player for the entire match, and it showed in the final score.
Djokovic rallied somewhat in the final set, coming back from down 1-5 to win three straight games before losing. After holding serve to make it 4-5 in the third set, Djokovic became emotional during the side change.
The 34-year-old 20-time major champion was seen crying:
Djokovic then lost the next game, giving Medvedev the tournament.
So why was Djokovic crying before losing? It seems like the crowd being so much in his favor while he came back from down 1-5 to 4-5 made him emotional.
Djokovic said that he had never previously felt that kind of love from the fans in New York. Their support, the way they tried to will him to the historic win, moved him.
In addition to the crowd reaction, Djokovic probably was reflecting on all the emotions of the season and the pressure of his pursuit of the Grand Slam.
More must-reads: