I lost nerve at the important moments, says Djokovic
Novak Djokovic admitted Sunday that his nerve failed him as he slipped to a 6-7 (1/7), 6-4, 7-5, 6-3 defeat to Stan Wawrinka in the US Open final. The 29-year-old world number one, who was chasing a third New York title and 13th career major, suffered his ninth loss in 21 Grand Slam finals. In a final which lasted almost four hours, Djokovic converted just three of 17 break points. “I lost my nerve in the important moments. He kept his cool,” said the 2011 and 2015 champion.
“I think that’s what decided the match. I guess sometimes it happens, even though you have the experience and know what to do.
“Just the heat of the moment and importance of the match, I guess, you know, was too strong for me at certain periods of the match. Just if you lose your cool, the match can go away.” PHYSICAL TOLL The Serb star also admitted that he came close to skipping the tournament as a serious wrist injury threatened to compromise his assault on a third major title of the year.
Physical problems plagued the world number one throughout the two weeks, a right shoulder injury giving way to problems with his toes as his hopes of a third US Open slipped away.
“Some other injury was very serious at the time. I really didn’t know whether or not I’m going to come, to be honest,” said the 29-year-old Djokovic who ended the Grand Slam season with a sixth Australian Open and a maiden Roland Garros.
Djokovic caused controversy at 1-3 and 2-5 down in the fourth set when he was allowed a medical timeout for treatment on his feet.
Wawrinka was angry that Djokovic had been granted permission to call the trainer and doctor while he was about to serve.
Djokovic apologised to his opponent as he sat courtside, claiming he couldn’t stand as a consequence.
“It was just the toenails were off and bleeding. Yeah, it was quite painful to move around,” he said later.