US Open 2018 results: Novak Djokovic, Naomi Osaka create history

Angus Reid

US Open 2018 results: Novak Djokovic, Naomi Osaka create history image

The final Grand Slam of the 2018 tennis season has been run and won, and Sporting News has all the information so that you didn't miss a single second of action.

The 138th edition of the US Open took place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City.

Read on below for all the information you require about the 2018 US Open Championships.

WHEN IS THE 2018 US OPEN?

The 2018 US Open began on Monday, August 27 and ended with the men's final on Sunday, September 9.

2018 US OPEN MEN'S SEEDINGS

1. Rafael Nadal (Spain)

2. Roger Federer (Switzerland)

3. Juan Martin del Potro (Argentina)

4. Alexander Zverev (Germany)

5. Kevin Anderson (South Africa)

6. Novak Djokovic (Serbia)

7. Marin Cilic (Croatia)

8. Grigor Dimitrov (Bulgaria)

9. Dominic Thiem (Austria)

10. David Goffin (Belgium)

11. John Isner (United States)

12. Pablo Carreno Busta (Spain)

13. Diego Schwartzman (Argentina)

14. Fabio Fognini (Italy)

15. Stefanos Tsitsipas (Greece)

16. Kyle Edmund (Great Britain)

17. Lucas Pouille (France)

18. Jack Sock (United States)

19. Roberto Bautista Agut (Spain)

20. Borna Coric (Croatia)

21. Kei Nishikori (Japan)

22. Marco Cecchinato (Italy)

23. Hyeon Chung (South Korea)

24. Damir Dzumhur (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

25. Milos Raonic (Canada)

26. Richard Gasquet (France)

27. Karen Khachanov (Russia)

28. Denis Shapovalov (Canada)

29. Adrian Mannarino (France)

30. Nick Kyrgios (Australia)

31. Fernando Verdasco (Spain)

32. Filip Krajinovic (Serbia)

2018 US OPEN: MEN'S QUARTER FINALS

(1) Rafael Nadal def. (9) Dominic Thiem 0-6 6-4 7-5 6-7 (4-7) 7-6 (7-5)

(3) Juan Martin del Potro def. (11) John Isner 6-7 (5) 6-3 7-6 (4) 6-2

(21) Kei Nishikori def. (7) Marin Cilic 2-6 6-4 7-6 (7-5) 4-6 6-4

(6) Novak Djokovic def. John Millman 6-3 6-4 6-4

2018 US OPEN: MEN'S SEMI FINALS

(1) Rafael Nadal ret. (3) Juan Martin del Potro 6-7 (3-7) 2-6

(6) Novak Djokovic def. (21) Kei Nishikori 6-3 6-4 6-2

2018 US OPEN: MEN'S FINAL

(6) Novak Djokovic def. (3) Juan Martin del Potro 6-3 7-6 (7-4) 6-3


2018 US OPEN WOMEN'S SEEDINGS

1. Simona Halep, Romania

2. Caroline Wozniacki, Denmark

3. Sloane Stephens, United States

4. Angelique Kerber, Germany

5. Petra Kvitova, Czech Republic

6. Caroline Garcia, France

7. Elina Svitolina, Ukraine

8. Karolína Plíšková, Czech Republic

9. Julia Goerges, Germany

10. Jelena Ostapenko, Latvia

11. Daria Kasatkina, Russia

12. Garbiñe Muguruza, Spain

13. Kiki Bertens, Netherlands

14. Madison Keys, United States

15. Elise Mertens, Belgium

16. Venus Williams, United States

17. Serena Williams, United States

18. Ashleigh Barty, Australia

19. Anastasija Sevastova, Latvia

20. Naomi Osaka, Japan

21. Mihaela Buzarnescu, Romania

22. Maria Sharapova, Russia

23. Barbora Strycova, Czech Republic

24. CoCo Vandeweghe, United States

25. Daria Gavrilova, Australia

26. Aryna Sabalenka, Belarus

27. Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, Russia

28. Anett Kontaveit, Estonia

29. Dominika Cibulkova, Slovakia

30. Carla Suarez Navarro, Spain

31. Magdalena Rybarikova, Slovakia

32. Maria Sakkari, Greece

2018 US OPEN: WOMEN'S QUARTER FINALS

(17) Serena Williams def. (8) Karolína Plíšková 6-4 6-3

Anastasija Sevastova def. (3) Sloane Stephens 6-2 6-3

(20) Naomi Osaka def. Lesia Tsurenko 6-1 6-1

(14) Madison Keys def. (30) Carla Suárez Navarro 6-4 6-3

2018 US OPEN: WOMEN'S SEMI FINALS

(17) Serena Williams def. Anastasija Sevastova 6-3 6-0

(20) Naomi Osaka def. (14) Madison Keys 6-2 6-4

2018 US OPEN: WOMEN'S FINAL

(20) Naomi Osaka def. (17) Serena Williams 6-2 6-4


WHO THE AUSSIES PLAYED AND HOW THEY WENT

John Millman  pulled off the upset of a lifetime, beating Roger Federer in the fourth round . He faced Novak Djokovic in the quarters, but went down in straight sets .

Unpredictable Australian Nick Kyrgios lost to second-seed Federer in the third round.

Kyrgios, seeded 30th, opened his campaign with a win over Radu Albot of Moldova and played Federer in a third-round blockbuster, but went down in straight sets.

Ash Barty  reached the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time, but lost to Karolína Plíšková.

Daria Gavrilova  was no match with Victoria Azarenka and was knocked out in the second round, while  Sam Stosur was ousted by second seed Caroline Wozniacki in her first match.

In the men's,  James Duckworth lost to Andy Murray, Jordan Thompson lost to Brit Cameron Norrie,  Alex de Minaur  was defeated in a five-set thriller by Marin Čilić in the third round and Jason Kubler retired against Taylor Fritz. 

2018 US OPEN AUSTRALIAN CONTESTANTS

Australian men at the US Open: James Duckworth, Matthew Ebden, Jason Kubler, Nick Kyrgios, John Millman, Jordan Thompson and Alex de Minaur.

Australian women at the US Open:  Ash Barty, Lizette Cabrera, Daria Gavrilova, Samantha Stosur and Ajla Tomljanovic.

AUSSIE WRAP UP:  Day one , day two , day three , day four , day five , day six , day seven , day eight .

2018 US OPEN NEWS

DJOKOVIC EQUALS SAMPRAS AFTER DOWNING DEL POTRO

The rejuvenated Novak Djokovic produced a magnificent performance against Juan Martin del Potro to claim his third US Open title and equal Pete Sampras' haul of 14 grand slams.

Injury troubles and personal problems contributed to Djokovic going more than two years without a slam following his 2016 French Open triumph, but he looked back to his brilliant best at Wimbledon in July and again proved the class of the field at Flushing Meadows as he secured a second successive major.

An eight-time finalist in New York who had only previously lifted the trophy in 2011 and 2015, the Serbian was made to work hard on Sunday as Del Potro came from a break down in the second and third sets.

BARTY CLAIMS MAIDEN GRAND SLAM TITLE WITH DOUBLES WIN

Australian Ash Barty has claimed her first grand slam crown after an entertaining US Open doubles victory alongside American CoCo Vandeweghe at Flushing Meadows.

After losing the first set, the pairing fought back against Australian Open champions Timea Babos and Kristina Mladenovic to win two tiebreaks.

With their backs against the wall, they saved a crucial three match points in the third set to take home the silverware to seal a 3-6 7-6 (7-2) 7-6 (8-6) victory.

OSAKA'S REMARKABLE TRIUMPH UNDERMINED BY FURIOUS SERENA

Naomi Osaka claimed her maiden grand slam title in truly extraordinary circumstances at the US Open, as a furious Serena Williams became embroiled in a stunning row with umpire Carlos Ramos .

The ice-cool Osaka triumphed 6-2 6-4 at Flushing Meadows to become Japan's first grand slam singles champion, yet that immense achievement was overshadowed by sensational scenes of anger on the other side of the net.

Six-time US Open winner Williams, who remains one short of Margaret Court's record haul of 24 major singles titles, was initially disgusted after receiving a coaching violation from the umpire during the first set.

DJOKOVIC EXPECTING STERN TEST FROM 'BIG-MATCH PLAYER' DEL POTRO IN FINAL

Novak Djokovic holds Juan Martin del Potro in the highest regard and knows he will face a "big-match player" when the two meet in the US Open men's singles final.

After Del Potro made it past an injured Rafael Nadal, who retired when trailing by two sets on Friday, Djokovic looked superb as he romped past Kei Nishikori to reach his eighth final at Flushing Meadows.

High on confidence after his Wimbledon triumph in July, the Serbian will undoubtedly start as the favourite against Del Potro on Sunday.

CLASSY DJOKOVIC SETS UP DELPO FINAL WITH NISHIKORI WIN

A red-hot Novak Djokovic booked a US Open final date with Juan Martin del Potro courtesy of a dominant straight-sets triumph over Kei Nishikori , which extended his winning run against the Japanese to 14 matches.

Djokovic was beaten by Nishikori at the last-four stage of the 2014 tournament at Flushing Meadows, but has since triumphed in every single meeting between the two.

Another success for the Serbian never looked in doubt as he took control from the outset, winning the first three games, and maintained his form to secure a hugely impressive 6-3 6-4 6-2 victory.

DEL POTRO THROUGH TO FINAL AS INJURED NADAL RETIRES

Juan Martin del Potro is one win away from a second US Open title after defending champion Rafael Nadal, trailing by two sets to love, retired from their semi-final due to injury .

Top seed Nadal experienced problems with his troublesome right knee earlier in the tournament, but was nevertheless able to come through an epic five-setter with Dominic Thiem in the quarter-finals.

However, his condition notably deteriorated against Del Potro and a medical timeout early in the second set failed to bring the desired results for the Spaniard, forcing him to end the contest when trailing 7-6 (3) 6-2.

THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING, WARNS US OPEN FINALIST SERENA WILLIAMS

An emotional Serena Williams warned her rivals "this is just the beginning" after she thundered into the US Open final on a stormy evening in New York.

Williams is one win away from equalling Margaret Court's record of 24 grand slam singles titles, having crushed Anastasija Sevastova 6-3 6-0 in Thursday's first semi-final at Flushing Meadows.

A year on from suffering severe complications following the birth of her first child, Serena looks back to her brilliant best and will undoubtedly start as the favourite against Madison Keys or Naomi Osaka in the final.

OSAKA CREATES HISTORY TO SET UP SERENA FINAL

Japanese sensation Naomi Osaka will meet 23-time grand slam champion Serena Williams in the US Open final after accounting for last year's runner-up Madison Keys on Thursday .

Osaka has enjoyed a breakthrough year on the WTA Tour after claiming the Indian Wells Masters, while the 20-year-old's power has seen her compared to former world number one and American great Williams.

Now Osaka has the chance to claim a first major title after reaching her maiden slam final by defeating 14th seed Keys 6-2 6-4 in New York.

SUBLIME SERENA SMASHES SEVASTOVA TO MOVE INTO FINAL

Serena Williams will get another chance to equal Margaret Court's record haul of 24 grand slam singles title after trouncing Anastasija Sevastova 6-3 6-0 to reach her ninth US Open final .

Having returned this year after the birth of her first child, Williams made the Wimbledon final in July but lost to Angelique Kerber.

The veteran American had also been beaten in her previous two semi-finals at Flushing Meadows, in 2015 and 2016, but is now on the brink of glory in New York following a sensational display on a stormy night.

So impressive throughout this tournament, Williams looks to be back to her brilliant best and again delighted her many supporters on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

MILLMAN'S INSPIRED RUN ENDS AT THE HANDS OF DJOKOVIC

John Millman's inspired run in the US Open is over, with the Australian going down in straight sets to Novak Djokovic in their quarter-final clash .

The 13-time Grand Slam champion moved into a semi-final with Kei Nishikori, who defeated Marin Cilic earlier in the day.

The 6-3 6-4 6-4 result was by no means humiliating for Millman, who sent down several brilliant winners in the match.

KEYS TOPS SUAREZ NAVARRO TO REACH SEMIS

Madison Keys will contest a second successive US Open semi-final after accounting for Carla Suarez Navarro in straight sets .

Keys made it all the way through to the final last year before she was stopped by fellow American Sloane Stephens at Flushing Meadows.

But Keys – the highest seed remaining in New York at 14 – will get another opportunity to feature in the final following her 6-4 6-3 win over Suarez Navarro on Wednesday.

FEARLESS MILLMAN HEADING INTO THE UNKNOWN AGAINST DJOKOVIC

John Millman will be out to prove his giant-killing win over Roger Federer was no fluke as he prepares for his maiden Grand Slam quarter-final appearance.

All eyes will again be on the Brisbane-born 29-year-old as Millman attempts to add another scalp in the form of 13-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic.

It won't be easy. If anything, it'll be harder. Federer was lethargic against Millman, while Djokovic is arguably the form player on tour at the moment.

DOUBLE DELIGHT FOR JAPANESE TENNIS AS OSAKA, NISHIKORI PROGRESS

It was a big day for Japanese tennis as Kei Nishikori and Naomi Osaka both won through to the final four at the US Open.

The 2014 men's final repeated itself in the quarters of this year's tournament, and it was Nishikori who emerged victorious over Marin Cilic in five sets

Earlier, Osaka raced to a big 6-1 6-1 win over the ailing Lesia Tsurenko to move into her first grand slam semi-final.

RAFA DOES IT THE HARD WAY AGAINST STOIC THIEM

US Open champion Rafael Nadal overcame a rare bagel and a relentless challenge from Dominic Thiem in an epic five-set quarter-final clash lasting almost five hours in New York.

World number one Nadal had only lost a set 6-0 at a grand slam on three previous occasions – the 2015 Australian Open, 2006 Wimbledon and the 2004 US Open – but that changed against rampant ninth seed Thiem in the opening set on Tuesday.

But in a titanic battle worthy of a final, with stunning winners on both racquets and breathtaking defence, top seed Nadal rallied to outlast Thiem 0-6 6-4 7-5 6-7 (4-7) 7-6 (7-5) in the longest match of this year's tournament – four hours and 49 minutes.

MILLMAN FINALLY GETTING THE ATTENTION HE DESERVES

John Millman had waited a long time for his moment to arrive. Just ask father Ron and mother Shona.

Millman's extraordinary upset of Roger Federer in their fourth round US Open clash brought the tennis world to a standstill.

However, John's father was overwhelmed by the media attention on him and his family .

"It's been unbelievable, really. Yeah, okay, it was a tennis (match), he beat Roger, so we move onto the next one, but the (media) interest... it's like a tsunami happened... it's overwhelming and unbelievable, but I love that my son is getting some attention," he said.

SERENA STEAMROLLS PAST PLISKOVA INTO SEMIS

Serena Williams gained sweet revenge over Karolina Pliskova to charge into the US Open semi-finals and significantly enhance her hopes of claiming a record-equalling 24th grand slam singles title.

Pliskova, the eighth seed, inflicted Williams' most recent defeat in New York when triumphing in a last-four tie at Flushing Meadows in 2016, but proved no match for the irrepressible American on this occasion.

Williams, seeking to match Margaret Court's haul of slam singles crowns and win a major for the first time since becoming a mother last September, started shakily yet soon found her devastating best form to claim a thumping 6-4 6-3 victory.

DEL POTRO SINKS ISNER TO PROLONG WAIT FOR AMERICAN MALE SEMI-FINALIST

The United States' long wait for a male semi-finalist at their home Open will continue after Juan Martin del Potro prevailed in an intense battle with John Isner at a hot and humid Flushing Meadows.

Del Potro – the 2009 US Open champion – had not dropped a set en route to the last eight, but lost the opener against Isner, who was looking to become the first American man to make the last four in New York since Andy Roddick in 2006.

However, Isner could not kick on after edging the opener and Del Potro triumphed 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 7-6 (7-4) 6-2 to make the semis for the second year in succession.

SLOANE'S TITLE DEFENCE GOES UP IN SMOKE

Sloane Stephens saw her hopes of defending her US Open title go up in smoke on Tuesday as Anastasija Sevastova progressed to the semi-finals on a red-hot day in New York.

Stephens struggled throughout in a match that saw just three of the 17 games played won from the end of the court in the full glare of the sunshine, losing 6-2 6-3.

Sevastova coped better with the challenging conditions to book her place in a maiden grand slam semi-final against the winner of the last-eight clash between Serena Williams and Karolína Plíšková.

MILLMAN PULLS OFF THE UPSET OF A LIFETIME

John Millman has secured the biggest win of his career on Tuesday, shocking the tennis world in the process.

The 29-year-old Aussie defeated world No. 2 Roger Federer 3-6 7-5 7-6 (7) 7-6 (3) in the fourth round of the US Open and will now face Novak Djokovic in the quarter final.

After the Swiss maestro rushed through the first set, the crowd in New York expected a routine Federer victory.

But the Aussie had other ideas and played the tennis of his life to defeat arguably the greatest player of all time.

NOVAK OVERCOMES THE HEAT TO BEAT JOAO SOUSA

Novak Djokovic came through a battle with the elements and apparent physical issues to reach the quarter-final of the US Open with a straight-sets win over Joao Sousa.

A prospective last-eight clash with Roger Federer was the reward on offer for the Wimbledon champion, but his fourth-round clash proved more difficult than the 6-3 6-4 6-3 scoreline suggests. 

While Sousa lacked the weaponry and the consistency to trouble Djokovic, the searing heat at Flushing Meadows, the behaviour of the crowd and umpire James Keothavong all left him perturbed at various junctures.

RAFA EYES IMPROVEMENT AHEAD OF DOMINIC THIEM QUARTER FINAL

Defending champion Rafael Nadal acknowledges that he must improve his underwhelming performances if he is to defeat Dominic Thiem in the US Open quarter-finals.

Nadal has struggled past Karen Khachanov and Nikoloz Basilashvili at Flushing Meadows, but the top seed faces a very different prospect against French Open finalist Thiem in the last eight.

While Nadal was able to celebrate a clean sweep of grand slam quarter-finals in 2018 on Sunday after edging past Basilashvili 6-3 6-3 6-7 (6-8) 6-4, he was under no illusions about the scale of the task ahead of him.

 SERENA COMES THROUGH ENTERTAINING KAIA KANEPI CLASH TO REACH QUARTERS

Serena Williams overcame Kaia Kanepi in three entertaining and power-packed sets to reach the quarter-finals of the US Open.

Williams, a six-time champion at Flushing Meadows who is seeking to equal Margaret Court's record of 24 grand slam singles titles, felt she produced her best performance since returning to the tour when she dropped just three games against sister Venus on Friday.

WAWRINKA FALLS TO RAONIC AS WORLD NO.1 SURVIVES SCARE

Defending US Open champion Rafael Nadal prevailed in an epic against Karen Khachanov, while Milos Raonic got the better of Stan Wawrinka in New York.

Former champion Wawrinka failed to reach the last 16 after falling to Raonic at Flushing Meadows, where Kevin Anderson triumphed in a thriller.

Juan Martin del Potro, meanwhile, dominated Fernando Verdasco en route to the fourth round

BARTY REACHES SECOND WEEK FOR THE FIRST TIME

Australia's Ash Barty is through to the fourth round of the 2018 US Open after defeating Karolina Muchova 6-3 6-4 in her third round match.

The 17th seed was dominant from start to finish, and despite a small hiccup when serving for the match, Barty looks in ominous form heading into the round of 16.

SERENA TAKES DOWN VENUS IN WILLIAMS BATTLE

Serena Williams earned bragging rights over Venus Williams as the 23-time grand slam champion dispatched her older sister in straight sets to reach the US Open last 16.

The most iconic sister act in sport, Serena and Venus were meeting for the 30th time – Friday's contest marking the earliest the pair have clashed at a slam since their first professional encounter at the 1998 Australian Open.

Venus beat her 16-year-old sister in straight sets that day in Melbourne but the seven-time major winner was no match for her younger sibling at Flushing Meadows, where Serena prevailed 6-1 6-2.

UMPIRE TO CONTINUE OFFICIATING MATCHES DESPITE KYRGIOS PEP TALK

The umpire who gave Nick Kyrgios a mid-match pep talk at the US Open went "beyond protocol" but will be allowed to continue working the tournament.

The USTA announced on Friday that it had conducted a "comprehensive review" of Lahyani's conduct in Friday's (AEST) match between Kyrgios and Pierre-Hugues Herbert.

MURRAY POKES FUN AT KYRGIOS FOLLOWING UMPIRE'S INTERVENTION

Andy Murray saw the lighter side of Nick Kyrgios' controversial conversation  with umpire Mohamed Lahyani that dominated day four of the US Open.

Kyrgios had already lost the first set when he left two serves alone to go 3-0 down in the second against Pierre-Hugues Herbert, prompting Lahyani to step down from his chair to talk to the Australian.

NOVAK DJOKOVIC OVERCOMES TENNYS SANDGREN IN NEW YORK

Former world number one Novak Djokovic outlasted Tennys Sandgren in a tough four-set battle to reach the US Open third round.

Djokovic toiled in the heat on a steamy day in New York on Tuesday but the 13-time grand slam champion was relatively more comfortable on Thursday, winning 6-1 6-3 6-7 (2-7) 6-2.

Seeking his second major of the year and third US Open title, Wimbledon champion Djokovic was tested throughout at Flushing Meadows and managed to come through the challenge despite wasting a match point in the third set.

DE MINAUR MOVES ONTO THIRD ROUND AS EXCITEMENT FOR CAREER BUILDS

The 19-year-old sensation is into the third round of this year's final Grand Slam after beating hometown hero Frances Tiafoe, 6-4 6-0 5-7 6-2.

With Aussie legend Lleyton Hewitt watching on with pride, the similarities between the two players became impossible to ignore. De Minaur isn't a big person, but his return of serve, conviction at the net and fighting spirit has us backing him for a huge career.

KYRGIOS' 'SURREAL' EUGENIE BOUCHARD SLEDGE LEAVES FAN STUNNED

If you're going to take Nick Kyrgios on in a verbal war, you better come equipped with a scroll full of sledges .

The controversial Australian looked down and out as he trailed Frenchman Frenchman Pierre Hughes Herbert by a set and a break midway through his third round US Open fixture.

Mentally he appeared in a bad place, but it didn't stop him from dipping into his bag of tricks.

FEDERER CRUISES PAST PAIRE TO SET UP KYRGIOS CLASH

Roger Federer will meet Nick Kyrgios in the US Open third round after the Swiss beat another unpredictable opponent in Benoit Paire.

The second seed did not drop a set in a 7-5 6-4 6-4 success over Paire, who smashed his racket, argued with the umpire and screamed in anguish at different points of the match.

It was a theatrical performance that actor Damian Lewis, who was among the crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium, would have been impressed with and it gave Federer perfect preparation for the volatile Kyrgios.

KYRGIOS DEFENDS UMPIRE FOR CONTROVERSIAL PEP TALK DURING THIRD ROUND WIN

Nick Kyrgios claimed umpire Mohamed Lahyani's controversial pep talk at the US Open had no impact on his improvement in his come-from-behind victory over Pierre-Hugues Herbert.

The erratic Kyrgios lost the opener 6-4 and was trailing 0-3 in the second set when Lahyani left his chair at the changeover and told the Australian: "I want to help you."

According to a statement later released by the US Open, Lahyani went down to Kyrgios due to the crowd noise and warned him over his apparent lack of interest in proceedings as well as advising him on possible medical assistance.

CHAIR UMPIRE GIVES KYRGIOS MID-MATCH PEP TALK IN BIZARRE SCENES

Nick Kyrgios has been in more than his fair share of trouble for things he has said to chair umpires – but the combustible Australian wasn’t to blame for his latest run-in with an official during his second-round victory at the US Open.

The 30th seed was in a giant hole in hot conditions on Court 17 after dropping the opening set and the first three games of the second to Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert.

Then one of the strangest moments in grand slam history happened when Mohamed Lahyani climbed out of his chair and stood over Kyrgios.

SERENA AMAZED SISTERS ARE STILL DOING IT FOR THEMSELVES

The siblings will meet in the third round at Flushing Meadows - and for the 30th time in their illustrious careers - on Friday, 20 years after their first encounter at a major.

Serena is the favourite to win a record seventh title in New York and draw level with Margaret Court's tally of 24 grand slam singles title, while 38-year-old Venus is eyeing a first major triumph for a decade.

Younger sister Serena, 36, is not relishing another family affair as she chases history in her homeland following a 6-2 6-2 second-round defeat of Carina Witthoeft.

ANDY MURRAY HITS BACK AT FERNANDO VERDASCO

Andy Murray hit back at Fernando Verdasco in a US Open coaching row, stating "I'm off to get a health check as apparently I've started imagining things."

Verdasco ended Murray's grand-slam comeback in the second round on Wednesday, winning 7-5 2-6 6-4 6-4 in Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Murray accused Verdasco of breaking the rules by speaking to his coach in the locker room during a 10-minute break - which the players were entitled to with the heat rule implemented - after the third set.

US OPEN APOLOGISES FOR CORNET'S SHIRT-CHANGE CODE VIOLATION

The US Open has apologised after a code violation was handed to Alize Cornet for taking her shirt off during a first-round defeat to Johanna Larsson, a decision the WTA branded "unfair".

Cornet changed during a break between the second and third sets but had to adjust her top on court after realising she had accidentally put it on incorrectly.

The Frenchwoman was immediately warned by the chair umpire, with Cornet going on to lose the match 4-6 6-3 6-2.

ROGER FEDERER PLAYS DOWN RETIREMENT TALK

Roger Federer played down retirement talk after appearing to suggest he was considering ending his career.

Federer, 37, looked in fine form in a 6-2 6-2 6-4 thrashing of Yoshihito Nishioka in the US Open first round on Wednesday (AEST).

But the Swiss maestro, who made it 18 wins in as many first-round matches at the major, threatened to overshadow his own victory when he mentioned retirement unprompted in an on-court interview.

FLUSHING MEADOWS BUZZ NEVER GETS OLD, SAYS FEDERER

Roger Federer said the thrill of playing in the US Open "never gets old" after he thrashed Yoshihito Nishioka in the first round on Wednesday (AEST).

The 37-year-old hit 56 winners as he put on another show in Arthur Ashe Stadium, easing to a 6-2 6-2 6-4 victory.

Federer lit up the night session as he eyes a first title at Flushing Meadows for a decade and a 21st grand slam triumph

KYRGIOS BLASTS LACK OF HEAT RULE AS EXTREME TEMPERATURES LASH NEW YORK

A huffing and puffing Nick Kyrgios has taken aim at US Open officials for not having a heat rule in place for the men's draw as a heatwave lashes New York.

The Australian won through to the second round at Flushing Meadows with a 7-5 2-6 6-4 6-2 win against Moldova's Radu Albot.

However, on a day burnt by temperatures of nearly 40 degrees, with humidity at an uncomfortable high, Kyrgios and Albot sweltered through the tough conditions.

NICK KYRGIOS FUMES AS HEAT LASHES FLUSHING MEADOWS

Nick Kyrgios won through to the second round at Flushing Meadows with a 7-5 2-6 6-4 6-2 win against Moldova's Radu Albot.

However, on a day burnt by temperatures of nearly 40 degrees, with humidity at an uncomfortable high, Kyrgios and Albot sweltered through the tough conditions.

The day featured an extraordinary six mid-match retirements in the men’s draw as tournament referee Brian Earley offered Kyrgios and Albot a 10-minute break after the third set.

Complaining during the match, Kyrgios made his intentions clear with regards to the heat rule - or lack thereof.

"I’m f***ed, my legs are f***ed. I’m cooked, I’m f***ing done. I can’t play," Kyrgios said as he winced towards his courtside box during the second set.

NOVAK DJOKOVIC BATTLES THROUGH AFTER FEELING THE HEAT

Novak Djokovic battled his way past Marton Fucsovics to reach the second round of the US Open after he appeared to be wilting in the New York heat.

The heat rule, usually only applied on the WTA Tour, was implemented for the men with temperatures soaring on a sizzling, humid day and Djokovic needed a visit from the doctor and trainer during the second set.

Djokovic pointed to his stomach and was hunched over as he toiled on Arthur Ashe Stadium, but came from a break down in the fourth set after losing the second and went on to win 6-3 3-6 6-4 6-0.

'WORSE THAN MELBOURNE': STOSUR WHACKS HEATWAVE CONDITIONS AFTER WOZNIACKI LOSS

Australian Sam Stosur says the extreme heat conditions at Flushing Meadows are dangerous for players but refused to blame the temperatures for her first-round loss to Caroline Wozniacki.

US Open officials implemented the heat rule as temperatures soared hit 35 degrees Celsius by 2pm, allowing players to have 10-minute breaks before deciding third sets.

But extra measures were imperative, according to Stosur.

NADAL THROUGH AS FERRER RETIRES IN FINAL GRAND SLAM MATCH

Rafael Nadal moved through at the US Open as David Ferrer's final grand slam match ended with an injury on Monday.

Nadal, the defending champion in New York, was leading the first-round match 6-3 3-4 when Ferrer retired due to a suspected calf injury.

The 2013 French Open runner-up, an apologetic Ferrer – who lost that final to Nadal – confirmed the exit marked his last major appearance.

"I have really good memories here at the US Open," Ferrer said. "This is the last grand slam of my career and I am so sorry because I can't finish the match."

MURRAY EYES IMPROVEMENT AS ANDERSON AND WAWRINKA SURVIVE

Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka were victorious on their US Open returns , while Kevin Anderson edged through a marathon clash.

Murray survived an early scare before claiming a four-set win over James Duckworth in the first round at Flushing Meadows on Monday.

Wawrinka, who like Murray missed the major last year, brushed past eighth seed Grigor Dimitrov.

Meanwhile, Anderson – the runner-up in 2017 – needed more than four hours to get through his opener.

SERENA WILLIAMS POWERS PAST MAGDA LINETTE ON US OPEN RETURN

Serena Williams marked her return to the US Open with an impressive straight-sets win over Magda Linette on Monday.

The 23-time grand slam champion was too good for Linette in a 6-4 6-0 victory on Arthur Ashe Stadium in the opening round.

Williams, who missed the major last year as she gave birth to her daughter in September, improved to an 18-0 win-loss record in the first round of her home grand slam.

IF ANYTHING, I HAVE MORE FIRE IN MY BELLY - SERENA NOT EASING UP IN MOTHERHOOD

Serena Williams is working harder than ever in her illustrious career as she prepares to play in the US Open for the first time since becoming a mother.

The 23-time grand slam winner did not feature in the tournament last year following the birth of daughter Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr last September.

Williams has yet to win a major since returning to action - she lost to Angelique Kerber in the final at Wimbledon in July - while she has not been crowned singles champion at the US Open since 2014.

However, speaking to the media before the tournament, the American revealed having a child has not diluted her desire for success, in fact quite the opposite.

SERENA WILLIAMS NO LONGER ALLOWED TO WEAR CATSUIT AT FRENCH OPEN

Serena Williams will not be allowed to wear her catsuit at the French Open in future, French Tennis Federation president Bernard Giudicelli has revealed.

Three-time Roland Garros champion Williams caught the eye in May as she wore a black catsuit, which she said helped to protect against blood clots following the birth of her daughter.

But Giudicelli believes the American went "too far" and insists players must dress more conservatively to show respect to tennis and to Roland Garros in future tournaments.

EVERT TIPS CONFIDENT SIMONA HALEP FOR US OPEN GLORY

Chris Evert has backed world number one Simona Halep to win the US Open , although she believes there is a group of up to 15 potential champions.

Top seed Halep heads to Flushing Meadows looking for her second grand slam title, having finally ended her wait for a major triumph at the French Open earlier this year.

The Romanian's best performance in New York saw her reach the semi-finals in 2015, but six-time champion Evert sees her leading a packed field on this occasion.

SERENA WILLIAMS CAN MAKE HISTORY - NAVRATILOVA

Martina Navratilova believes Serena Williams has every chance of making history  by winning the US Open on home soil despite being undercooked.

Williams missed an opportunity to match Margaret Court's record of 24 grand slam singles titles when she was beaten by Angelique Kerber in the final at Wimbledon last month.

The 36-year-old will head into her home major short of match practice, but Navratilova thinks she can move level with Court and surpass Chris Evert's tally of six triumphs at Flushing Meadows.

TOMIC ACCUSED OF TANKING AS KOKKINAKIS WINS QUALIFIER

The battle of the Aussies for US Open qualification went the way of Thanasi Kokkinakis, but focus again zeroed in on Bernard Tomic, who earned the ire of some for 'tanking' .

Tomic won the first set 6-3, but Kokkinakis rallied to piece together nine consecutive games to set up victory.

The 6-0 second set result in favour of Kokkinakis was never going to do the divisive Tomic any favours, but he fought to pull some respectability back in the third set.

SERENA WILLIAMS ELEVATED TO 17TH SEED AT US OPEN

Six-time champion Serena Williams has been elevated to 17th seed as she returns to the US Open.

Williams missed the final grand slam of last year as she gave birth to her daughter, but she is the only player to be seeded above his or her ranking in either the men's or the women's draw in 2018.

The 36-year-old moves from 26th to 17th, knocking numerous rivals - including 2006 winner Maria Sharapova - down a place, as world number one Simona Halep is the top seed.

FEDERER RARING TO GO AT US OPEN AFTER DJOKOVIC DEFEAT

Roger Federer is eagerly awaiting the start of the US Open after defeat to Novak Djokovic in the Cincinnati Masters final on Sunday.

In the pair's first meeting for two and a half years, Djokovic prevailed 6-4 6-4 to complete the 'Career Golden Masters' and become the first man to win all nine ATP 1000 tournaments.

Seven-time Cincinnati champion Federer beat the Serbian in the final on three of those occasions but was a magnanimous loser in conceding the better man won this time around.

The Swiss will take a break before heading to the last major of the year at Flushing Meadows, where he triumphed in five successive years between 2004 and 2008.

ALCOTT: KYRGIOS IS THE MOST TALENTED PLAYER IN THE WORLD

Australian multi-sport paralympic star Dylan Alcott says Nick Kyrgios is the most talented player on the planet and argues the sometimes wayward 23-year-old is completely different behind closed doors to the persona we see on court. 

Kyrgios caused more headlines at the Cincinnati Masters last week after a second set meltdown during his match with Borna Coric. 

The Aussie tennis star lost the set 6-0 in a matter of minutes and took aim at the umpire in a series of heated outbursts. 

Despite the drama, Kyrgios went on to win the match 7-6(1) 0-6 6-3.

DJOKOVIC MAKES HISTORY AFTER BEATING FEDERER TO CINCINNATI CROWN

Novak Djokovic made history by becoming the first singles player to complete a clean sweep of Masters titles with a straight-sets defeat of Roger Federer in Cincinnati.

Djokovic had been runner-up five times in the prestigious hard-court event, but was not to be denied by his old foe Federer, winning 6-4 6-4 with a commanding display in the first meeting between the old foes since the 2016 Australian Open semi-final.

The Wimbledon champion served superbly and was relentless in another outstanding performance as he sealed a 'Career Golden Masters' on Sunday.

Djokovic snapped world number two Federer's sequence of 100 consecutive holds in America's Midwest to take the first set and fought back from a break down in the second to complete the full set of nine Masters crowns.

FEDERER: DJOKOVIC COULD BE CAUGHT UP IN US OPEN PRESSURE

Roger Federer believes Novak Djokovic could feel the pressure at the U.S. Open and is predicting an epic tournament at Flushing Meadows.

Djokovic ended a two-year grand-slam drought at Wimbledon last month to win one of tennis' big-four tournaments for the 13th time. The 31-year-old has been installed as favorite in New York by some bookmakers, with Rafael Nadal and Federer not far behind.

Federer is excited to see Djokovic return to form but does not know how the added pressure from his Wimbledon win will affect his rival.

Addressing the media before his Cincinnati Masters campaign, he said: "Novak can play with less pressure again I guess, to some extent, but you can always get caught up in the pressure, the media saying 'well clearly now you're going to win the U.S. Open', and you're like 'well, I guess so, yes'.

Stan Wawrinka, Victoria Azarenka and Svetlana Kuznetsova are among the players to have been handed wildcards for this year's US Open.

This will be the last Grand Slam to have 32 seeds that will revert to 16 seeding format in 2019.

Angus Reid

Angus Reid Photo