Ranked 28th, Anderson became the lowest ranked player ever to reach the final at Flushing Meadows and it was always going to be a tough ask to be the world number one.

Nadal beat Anderson to 6-3, 6-3 and 6-4 taking his Grand Slam tally to 16, just two behind the record of Roger Federer.

Following his lose, Anderson, said Nadal is an idol of his despite being the same

“I really want to congratulate Rafa, I know we’re the same age, but I feel like I’ve been watching you my whole life.

“You really have been an idol of mine and its tough playing you, you proved it again tonight.

“You’re one of the greatest ambassadors of our sport, congratulations.

“Last year was difficult for me, it’s tough when you’re injured as tennis player and you know the competition is so strong and to comeback and make my first final of a Grand Slam has really made for a special two weeks.”

Anderson still walked off the court win a runners-up cheque of close to R24 million.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport