By DPA
New York : Novak Djokovic became the first Serbian man to reach a Grand Slam final as he dominated David Ferrer 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 at the US Open.
The 20-year-old winner came good on his third opportunity this season after stalling in the final four at the French Open and Wimbledon.
The world number three faces a final against Roger Federer.
Djokovic owns a win over Federer from last month’s final in Montreal, an event where he beat both the Swiss and world number two Rafael Nadal.
Djokovic at age 20 become the youngest US Open finalist since Pete Sampras won the title in 1990.
The winner was Saturday bothered by heat and high humidity, at one point calling for the trainer and having his pulse taken at mid-match. He returned to the court wearing a cap, which was quickly discarded after a few games.
“I was worried about my fitness. I got off to such a slow start,” said the player who trailed 4-1 in the opening set against the number 15 Spaniard.
“I have played so many hours on the court, I didn’t have a lot of energy. David is a big competitor and fights very hard.”
Djokovic levelled his record against Ferrer, who put out Nadal this week, at two wins apiece, with the Spaniard winning their last meeting in Monte Carlo in the spring.
The Serbian nailed down the first two sets, then broke for 2-1 in the third before wrapping up victory with a concluding break on a winning chip volley.
“I’ll try to recover and rest and maybe watch some of the next match,” said Djokovic. “It’s so exciting to be in my first Grand Slam final
“I’m proud for myself but also for my country. I’m proud to represent Serbia.”