Best US Open Tennis Matches of All Time
The US Open is one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world, and it has been the site of some of the most memorable matches in history. From epic comebacks to stunning upsets, these matches have left fans on the edge of their seats and have cemented their place in tennis lore.
1. Classic Rivalries: Federer vs. Nadal
The rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal is arguably the greatest in tennis history, and their matches at the US Open are always highly anticipated. Their 2008 final is considered by many to be the greatest US Open final ever played. Federer was looking to win his sixth consecutive US Open title, but Nadal had already defeated him at the French Open earlier that year.
The match was a thrilling back-and-forth affair, with both players showing incredible skill and determination. Nadal ultimately won in a dramatic five-set thriller, 6-4, 6-4, 6-7(7), 6-7(3), 6-3. This victory cemented Nadal’s place as one of the greatest clay-court players of all time, but also showed his growing dominance on hard courts.
2. The “Comeback Kid” – 2012 Final: Murray vs. Djokovic
The 2012 US Open final was a testament to the spirit of Andy Murray. Facing Novak Djokovic, who was on an incredible run of form, Murray faced a mountain to climb. Djokovic won the first two sets comfortably, showcasing his dominant gameplay. However, Murray dug deep and fought back with incredible resilience.
Murray won the next three sets in a dramatic turn of events, making history as the first British man to win a US Open singles title since 1936. This match showed the world Murray’s unwavering determination and solidified his place as one of the best players of his generation.
3. The “Upset” of the Century: 2009 Semi-final: Del Potro vs. Federer
In the 2009 US Open semi-finals, the tennis world witnessed one of the most unexpected upsets in tournament history. Juan Martin del Potro, the Argentine giant, faced Roger Federer, who was looking to win his fifth consecutive US Open title.
Federer, at his peak, was the heavy favorite. However, Del Potro, playing with incredible power and precision, took the match in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, 6-4. This win not only stunned the tennis world but also launched Del Potro’s career to new heights.
4. The “Longest Match” – 2016 Semi-final: Djokovic vs. Wawrinka
The 2016 US Open semi-final between Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka is famous for being the longest match in the history of the tournament. This epic encounter lasted for four hours and 47 minutes, showcasing the incredible resilience and stamina of both players.
Wawrinka, the underdog, managed to defeat the world number one Djokovic in five sets, 6-7(1), 6-4, 7-5, 6-3. This victory was a testament to Wawrinka’s exceptional talent and his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
5. The “Greatest Final” – 1987: Lendl vs. McEnroe
The 1987 US Open final between Ivan Lendl and John McEnroe is considered by many to be the greatest final in the history of the tournament. These two rivals, with contrasting styles of play, battled it out for over four hours in a match that went down to the wire.
Lendl, the methodical and powerful Czech player, eventually emerged victorious in five sets, 6-7(4), 6-3, 7-6(6), 6-1. This match was a display of pure grit and determination, with both players leaving everything on the court.
6. The “Women’s Classic” – 2011 Final: Stosur vs. Kvitova
In the 2011 US Open final, Samantha Stosur, the Australian player, faced Petra Kvitova, the Czech rising star. Stosur, a powerful baseliner, came out on top in a match that showcased her incredible consistency and mental toughness.
Stosur won the match in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3, to become the first Australian woman to win the US Open title since Margaret Court in 1973. This victory was a remarkable achievement for Stosur and a highlight of her career.
7. The “Unforgettable Upset” – 1985: Evert vs. Navratilova
The 1985 US Open final between Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova is a match that will forever be remembered for its dramatic and unexpected outcome. Evert, the American legend, was looking to win her fourth consecutive US Open title, but Navratilova, her longtime rival, had other plans.
Navratilova, playing with incredible confidence and aggression, defeated Evert in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4. This victory was a significant upset, as Evert was the heavy favorite going into the match. This match is often cited as the turning point in Navratilova’s dominance of the women’s game.
8. The “Unstoppable Force” – 1999 Final: Hingis vs. Davenport
The 1999 US Open final between Martina Hingis and Lindsay Davenport was a clash of titans, showcasing the dominance of these two players at the top of the women’s game. Hingis, the Swiss sensation, was looking to win her second consecutive US Open title, but Davenport, the American powerhouse, stood in her way.
Hingis, known for her exceptional footwork and precise groundstrokes, triumphed in a tense three-set match, 6-3, 6-3. This victory cemented Hingis’s place as one of the most dominant players of her generation.
9. The “Next Generation” – 2019 Final: Thiem vs. Medvedev
The 2019 US Open final was a battle between two of the most exciting young players in the world, Dominic Thiem and Daniil Medvedev. Thiem, the Austrian baseliner, faced a formidable challenge in Medvedev, the Russian powerhouse known for his relentless groundstrokes.
In an exciting five-set match, Medvedev emerged victorious, winning 6-4, 6-4, 6-7(5), 6-4. This win not only marked Medvedev’s first Grand Slam title but also signaled the arrival of a new generation of tennis stars.
10. The “Legacy Match” – 2022 Final: Alcaraz vs. Ruud
The 2022 US Open final was a historic event, showcasing the rise of Carlos Alcaraz, the young Spanish sensation. Alcaraz, known for his incredible athleticism and powerful groundstrokes, faced Casper Ruud, the Norwegian player who was looking to become the first Norwegian to win a Grand Slam title.
Alcaraz, in a captivating four-set match, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6(1), 6-3, became the youngest US Open champion since Pete Sampras in 1990. This victory showcased Alcaraz’s incredible talent and positioned him as one of the future stars of the sport.
11. The “First Time” – 2014 Final: Cilic vs. Nishikori
The 2014 US Open final was a unique event, as it featured two players, Marin Cilic and Kei Nishikori, who were both looking to win their first Grand Slam title. This match showcased the resilience and determination of both players, who were battling for a historic moment.
Cilic, the Croatian player known for his powerful serve and forehand, emerged victorious in a four-set match, 6-3, 6-3, 6-3. This victory was a monumental achievement for Cilic and a memorable moment in US Open history.
Conclusion: The US Open – A Stage for Legends
The US Open has been a stage for some of the most memorable moments in tennis history. From epic rivalries to stunning upsets, the tournament has produced matches that will be remembered for generations to come. Whether it’s the unwavering determination of Andy Murray, the power of Juan Martin del Potro, the legacy of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, or the rise of the next generation, the US Open continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling action and unforgettable matches.
The US Open, with its unique atmosphere and grand tradition, is a true testament to the power and beauty of the game of tennis. As the tournament continues to evolve and new stars emerge, we can only anticipate more epic matches and legendary moments in the years to come.
