US Open: A look at 5 big upsets in the last decade

Modified Aug 26, 2019 11:42 GMT

Roger Federer has suffered more shocking upsets than any other top player in the past decade

#4 2014 Semifinal: Nishikori beats Djokovic 6-4, 1-6, 7-6(4), 6-3

Nishikori takes down Djokovic to reach his first Major final

Following consecutive five-setters against Milos Raonic and Stanislas Wawrinka in each of his previous two rounds, Kei Nishikori arrived at his first Grand Slam semi-final as the overwhelming underdog against top seed Novak Djokovic.

Displaying little stage fright, the Japanese allayed any concerns of exhaustion when he took the first set for the loss of four games. Djokovic responded with greater firepower in the second to level the match at a set apiece.

In a competitive third set, Nishikori survived seven deuces to hold serve for 2-1 but failed to serve out the set at 5-3 as Djokovic broke back. To his credit though, Nishikori regained control of the match by playing a superior tie-break to take a two-sets-to-one lead.

Riding on his momentum, the Japanese broke Djokovic in the first game of the fourth set and the single break of serve would suffice as Nishikori served out the biggest win of his career to reach his maiden Grand Slam final.

In the process, Djokovic's bid to reach five consecutive US Open finals came to an end.

About the author

Bhargav is a veteran sports journalist and editor at Sportskeeda, with a rich professional experience of 17 years, working for the likes of Siemens and Bombay Dyeing. An avid football and tennis follower for over three decades, Bhargav uses his vast knowledge and experience, attention to detail, an unbiased yet interesting writing style, and thorough research to craft insightful articles, which have raked in over 18 million reads so far.

Bhargav supports Italy at national level, a team steeped in tradition and history according to him. He still harbors the heartbreak from the Azzurri’s 1994 FIFA World Cup final defeat against Brazil, and protagonist-turned-antagonist from the game, ‘Divine Ponytail’ Roberto Baggio is his all-time favorite player. His favorite manager is Marcelo Lippi, who ended Italy’s 24-year wait for the World Cup trophy, winning it in 2006.

Outside Europe’s top five leagues, he follows the MLS following Lionel Messi’s move in 2023 but favors Cristiano Ronaldo in the G.O.A.T. debate. During his free time, Bhargav enjoys driving off to new places and singing.

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