Kyle Edmund's US Open run ends with defeat to Novak Djokovic
Monday 5 September 2016 11:18, UK
Kyle Edmund's superb run at the US Open ended in disappointment as the British No 4 was blown away by Novak Djokovic in their fourth round clash.
Edmund appeared to be struck by nerves in a packed-out Arthur Ashe Stadium as the 21-year-old succumbed 6-2 6-1 6-4 having previously knocked out Richard Gasquet and John Isner.
Djokovic brushed off any rustiness - he enjoyed a walkover and early retirement in earlier rounds - to dispel any doubts about his form, although there remain concerns over his fitness after he was forced to call for treatment on his elbow early in the third set.
Having played only a little over five hours of tennis so far in the tournament, the Serb now faces Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the last eight, but he insists he feels in good shape.
"It feels great to play a match. The first complete match I played was a first-round night session," he said.
"Now a fourth round, after a weird couple of rounds. I'm really glad to be back. I thought I came out of the blocks and played high intensity.
"I want to wish Kyle the best. He is only 21 and playing his first Arthur Ashe match, so he deserves applause."
Edmund only found his game in the third set, but his consolation for an excellent week will be a rise to just outside the top 50 of the world rankings.
Djokovic flew out of the blocks, breaking Edmund twice before serving out for the set as the Briton, whose rasping forehand drew gasps from the crowd, seemed impatient to hit winners and committed a series of unforced errors.
Djokovic broke again in the first game of the second and once more for 4-0, as the favourite won his 10th game out of 11 to cement his advantage.
At the start of the third, however, he called on the trainer to massage his troublesome right elbow and there was some temporary respite for Edmund, who broke twice to lead 3-2.
One blistering forehand offered a glimpse of the Briton's talent, but it was too little, too late, as Djokovic strolled to victory in one hour and 56 minutes.
