Djokovic beats Federer to claim US Open

Novak Djokovic of Serbia holds up the U.S. Open trophy after defeating Roger Federer of Switzerland in their men's singles final match at the U.S. Open Championships tennis tournament in New York, September 13, 2015. REUTERS/Carlo Allegri

It was lucky number 10 for Serbia's Novak Djokovic Sunday when he downed long-time rival Roger Federer to capture the US Open crown. The world number one lifted his third Grand Slam of the year in a four-set battle (6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4), in which his mental fortitude delivered victory.

The win means Djokovic's defeat by Stan Wawrinka at the French Open in June is the match that robbed him of the elusive calendar Grand Slam.

That aside, he's pretty chuffed at adding to his singles trophy haul - and at making a name for himself among the legends of the game.

Just six men in tennis history have won more singles majors than Djokovic, with Federer leading the charge with a record 17 Grand Slams, followed by Rafael Nadal and Pete Sampras on 14 titles each, Roy Emerson with 12 and Rod Laver and Bjorn Borg with 11.

"We got to double digits now and I'm flattered and honored to be a part of the elite group of players, legends of our sports, to manage to win this many Grand Slam trophies in their lives and careers," Djokovic said.

"I'm 28. I have always valued the care for my body, and my mind ... I will continue on with the same kind of lifestyle. Hopefully this same kind of approach will give me longevity and I can have many more years to come and many more opportunities to fight for these trophies."

Despite losing his first US Open final in six years, Federer insisted he is very much enjoying the game and was quick to dismiss talk of retirement.

"I am playing a good year. I'm playing good tennis," the 34-year-old said. "I am happy with where my level is at. I'm able to be consistent, very consistent."

Djokovic's US Open win caps off a season that saw him win the same three Grand Slam titles he claimed in 2011.

While it was a tough feat to repeat, Djokovic said things are different this time round.

"I'm enjoying this year more than any previous one because I'm a husband and I'm a father and that makes it even more sweeter."