Novak Djokovic’s 24th Grand Slam singles title at the 2023 U.S. Open made him the all-time men’s leader, surpassing Rafael Nadal (22) and Roger Federer (20). At 36, the Serbian champion cemented his GOAT claim with the most majors, most weeks at No. 1 (400+), and career Golden Masters (winning all nine ATP Masters 1000 events).

The 24th Slam

September 10, 2023, Arthur Ashe Stadium. Djokovic defeated Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 7-6, 6-3 to win his fourth U.S. Open title. He equaled Margaret Court’s all-time Grand Slam record (24 total, though 13 of hers were pre-Open Era).

The victory also gave Djokovic his third Grand Slam title of 2023 (Australian Open, French Open, U.S. Open), matching his 2021 season. Only Wimbledon eluded him, where Carlos Alcaraz defeated him in the final.

Record-Breaking Career

Grand Slam Breakdown (24 total):

• Australian Open: 10 titles (most by any player at a single major)
• French Open: 3 titles
• Wimbledon: 7 titles
• U.S. Open: 4 titles

Djokovic holds the record for most weeks at No. 1 (400+), most year-end No. 1 finishes (8), and most ATP Masters 1000 titles (40+). He’s the only player to win all nine ATP Masters 1000 events (twice each).

The Big Three Era

Djokovic, Federer, and Nadal dominated tennis for 15+ years, combining for 66 of 81 Grand Slam titles from 2003-2023. Djokovic’s head-to-head record against both is positive—30-29 vs. Nadal, 27-23 vs. Federer.

His 2011 season (70-6 record, 3 majors) is considered the greatest single season in tennis history. His 2015-2016 dominance (winning 4 consecutive majors from Wimbledon 2015 to French Open 2016) was unprecedented.

Controversies

Djokovic’s anti-vaccine stance led to deportation from Australia in January 2022, preventing him from defending his Australian Open title. He missed the U.S. Open 2022 due to vaccination requirements. These absences cost him potential Grand Slam titles.

His passionate on-court demeanor—smashing rackets, yelling at his box—draws criticism. His status as the “villain” against Federer and Nadal’s popularity persists, though younger fans appreciate his greatness.

Legacy

With Federer retired (2022) and Nadal struggling with injuries, Djokovic stands alone atop men’s tennis. His pursuit of 25+ majors continues. The next generation (Alcaraz, Sinner, Medvedev) challenges him, but at 36, he remains elite.

His “Idemo!” (Serbian for “Let’s go!”) celebration, chest-thumping, and bow to the court after victories are iconic. His flexibility, mental toughness, and return-of-serve are unmatched.

GOAT Debate: Most analysts now favor Djokovic over Federer and Nadal based on Grand Slam count, weeks at No. 1, head-to-head records, and Masters titles. Federer had elegance, Nadal had clay dominance and grit, but Djokovic has the numbers.

Source: ATP Novak Djokovic