Djokovic praise for Federer after victory

WORLD No.1 Novak Djokovic was full of praise for 34-year-old Roger Federer who was looking for his first major title since 2012.

NEW YORK STATE OF MIND: Novak Djokovic holds up the championship trophy after defeating Roger Federer in the US Open final. Picture: Julio Cortezaap

AFTER winning his third Grand Slam title of 2015, matching the effort of his dominant 2011 season, world No.1 Novak Djokovic was full of praise for 34-year-old Roger Federer who was looking for his first major title since 2012.

"He's still improving and keeps on going," Djokovic said after claiming his second US Open crown 6-4 5-7 6-4 6-4. "I have tremendous respect for Roger and what his game (presents) to me and any other player."

The victory levelled the ledger between the two at 21-21, and saw Djokovic tie Bill Tilden at No.7 on the all-time Grand Slam list with 10 titles.

Unlike Flavia Pennetta, who announced she was retiring at the end of the year after winning the women's singles final, Federer yesterday told fans he would definitely be back.

"I love the sport, I've got a lot of passion for it and one last thing ... I'll see you guys next year," the father-of-four said.

Originally published as Djokovic praise for Federer after victory