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11/02/2024 03:29:07 pm

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U.S. Open: Marin Cilic Wins First Grand Slam Title

Marin Cilic wins his first Grand Slam title over Kei Nishikori of Japan at the US Open in Flushing Meadows New York

(Photo : telegraph.co.uk)


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Marin Cilic won his very first Grand Slam title over Kei Nishikori of Japan in straight sets, 6-3, 6-3, 6-3, at the U.S. Open in Flushing Meadows New York on Monday.

The 14th seeded Croatian was just tremendous with his serves, delivering 80 percent of first serves and pounding 17 service aces to take down the 10th seeded Nishikori in just under two hours at the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Cilic, 25, defeated 17-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer in the semi-finals also in three sets 6-3 6-4 6-4.

Nishikori on the other hand have nothing to be ashamed about, being the first Japanese national to reach the finals of a major tournament is a great achievement.

He also defeated World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in four sets 6-4 1-6 7(7)-6(4) 6-3 in the semis which is a monumental achievement in itself.

Cilic's coach, 2001 French Open champion Goran Ivanisevic was ecstatic over the win as crowd surrounded to congratulate him as well.

 "I think this is all hard work this last several years especially this last year," Cilic said. "Goran has brought so many things but the most important was joy in tennis and always having fun."

"For the other players who are working hard, this is a big sign that if you work hard things will pay off," Cilic added.

The Croatian's game peaked at the right time and showed a maturity in the sport.

"I was playing the best tennis of my life," Cilic said. "I think mental part of the game from my own side was on a good spot."

What's next after the last Grand Slam tournament of the year? The Shanghai Rolex Masters, where Djokovic is a two-time defending champion which will be held early October at the Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena in the Minhang District of Shanghai, China.

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