{{Rafael Nadal beat world number one Novak Djokovic in a pulsating four-set final to claim his second US Open title in New York.<\/p>\n
The Spaniard, 27, held on magnificently in the third set to go on and win a gripping contest 6-2 3-6 6-4 6-1 in three hours and 21 minutes.}}<\/p>\n
One incredible 54-shot rally – the longest in the tournament by 20 shots – summed up a battle that thrilled the 23,000 spectators in Arthur Ashe Stadium.<\/p>\n
Nadal has now won 13 Grand Slam singles titles and moves within one of Pete Sampras in the all-time list, with Roger Federer leading on 17.<\/p>\n
And after missing last year’s US Open during a seven-month absence with a knee injury, Nadal is now set to regain the number one ranking.<\/p>\n
“Having this success is amazing,” he said. “I never expected it. That’s life and I’m lucky to have what I’m having.<\/p>\n
“I really love the competition, I really love the sport. All my career I dreamed to be involved in matches like today. I enjoy every moment.<\/p>\n
“These things are not forever. In a few years I won’t have this chance. I try my best, I have passion and that’s all I can do.”<\/p>\n
Monday’s final was a predictably electrifying, punishing contest as the pair met for the 37th time – taking them past the rivalry of John McEnroe and Ivan Lendl to set a new record since the Open era began in 1968.<\/p>\n
It was their sixth Grand Slam final and third at Flushing Meadows, after the Spaniard won in 2010 and Djokovic took revenge in 2011.<\/p>\n
Nadal, seeded second, had a 21-0 record on hard courts this year heading into the final, and had dropped serve just once while powering through the draw in New York.<\/p>\n
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