RAFAEL NADAL BECAME the seventh man to have completed a career grand slam last night when he defeated Novak Djokovic to win the US Open at Flushing Meadows.

The Spanish number one triumphed 6-4 5-7 6-4 6-2 over the 2007 finalist to finish off a brilliant tournament for Nadal. Djokovic fought hard but ultimately Nadal was far too strong in the 3 hour 22 minutes long match.

Nadal now joins Rod Laver, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, Fred Perry and Don Budge as the seventh-ever man to have won all grand slams over a career. He also becomes only the second player ever to do the career golden slam- winning all grand slams and the Olympic men’s singles. Another record now held by Nadal is the second-ever player to win three successive majors in a calendar year.

The world number one was elated after collecting the trophy. “Just to arrive to the final was amazing and to have the trophy in my hands in a few seconds with my heart beating is going to be unbelievable. First thing, I would like to congratulate Novak and all his team for a great tournament, you’re a great player and you’re going to win this trophy very soon, I’m sure of that. I want to congratulate you for a great attitude after losing a Grand Slam final, that’s a great example for the kids.”

In turn Djokovic said: “It’s a great honour to be here. I would like first to congratulate Rafa and his team for an amazing tournament. Right now he is the best player in the world and he absolutely deserves this title, well done.”