All in, let’s do it: Novak Djokovic eyes historic calendar Grand Slam

World No 1 Novak Djokovic is eyeing a historic calendar Grand Slam after reaching the men’s singles final of the US Open. Just one victory away, Djokovic may become the first man since 1969 to achieve the feat. He saw off Olympic gold-medallist Alexander Zverev 4-6, 6-2, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 at Flushing Meadows. This victory made Djokovic 27-0 in major championships this season.

If the Djoker manages to beat No. 2 Daniil Medvedev in the final, he will secure two major milestones – firstly, he will complete a rare calendar Grand Slam and secondly, he will surpass Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer in terms of Grand Slams won.

“There’s only one match left. … All in. Let’s do it,” Djokovic said, spreading his arms wide, in an on-court interview.

“I’m going to put my heart and my soul and my body and my head into that one. I’m going to treat the next match like it is the last match of my career.”

Djokovic is trying to go 4 for 4 at the majors over the course of one season. The last time it was done was 52 years back. It was done by Rod Laver in 1962 and Don Budge in 1962.

As far as a true Grand Slam is concerned, three women have managed to complete it. The most recent was Steffi Graf in 1988. Serena Williams’ attempt in 2015 ended at the US Open with a semifinal loss to Roberta Vinci.

Talking about the array of emotions he goes through during a match, Djokovic said: “It’s kind a hurricane, a tornado, of emotions that you’re going through in a sequence of one set or even one point. You are by yourself on the court, so there is no escape. You’ve got to find a way,” Djokovic said.

“And I think, over the years, I have managed to develop a formula that works for me,” the Serbian added.

Zverev, who disappointedly walked back, said about Djokovic’s pursuit: “It’s great for the sport. Nobody thought that anybody would do it again. … I do believe that he will do it.”