Update | Rafael Nadal crowns his ‘most emotional season ever’
Thirteenth slam title caps a year of huge highs and lows for Spanish great Rafael Nadal
Engulfed in a mixture of relief and utter joy, Rafael Nadal fell on his back and covered his face with his hands after beating Novak Djokovic in four sets to win the US Open, the 13th grand slam title of his career.
A year ago, Nadal sat at home watching on television as Andy Murray defeated Djokovic, dealing with the knee injuries which had raised questions over his longevity in the sport.
But after returning to the game from a seven-month absence, Nadal's remarkable year has included two grand slam wins as he marches his way towards the number-one ranking again.
"For a few reasons this season is probably the most emotional one in my career," Nadal said after his 6-2, 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 victory. "I felt that I did everything right to have my chance here.
"You play a match against one of the best players of the history like this, Novak, number one in the world, probably on his favourite surface, as I said the other day, I would have to be almost perfect to win. It means a lot for me to have this trophy. It is just amazing," he said.
