Novak Djokovic beats Roger Federer to win the Cincinnati Masters

Having been beaten in five previous finals, Djokovic beat seven-time winner Federer 6-4, 6-4.

It makes Djokovic the first to win all nine Masters series and he will now go into the US Open later in the month as one of the clear favourites to lift the trophy.

Federer looked nervous throughout, facing break points from the very first game and Djokovic took full effect of the Swiss legend’s uncharacteristic errors to clinch the first set.

Both players were broken in the second set but once Djokovic broke in the seventh game of the set, he held on with no issues to win the title.

“It’s obviously a very special moment to stand here with the trophy in Cincinnati,” Djokovic said.

“I’ve played five finals before and most of those I’ve lost to this great man. Thank you Roger for letting me win once here!

“It was a tough match for him. He probably didn’t feel his best but he’s a great champion and probably the best to ever play the game.

“I want to thank my team and my family for their unconditional support.

“I’ve been a through a rollercoaster ride with injury and having surgery earlier this year and it seems a bit unreal to be back at this level, winning Wimbledon and now Cincinnati for the first time.”

Federer won the opening two games of the second set, before being broken straight back as Djokovic didn’t let the break of serve affect him.

The Serb went on to break again as he became the first ever player to win all nine Masters events and close the gap on Rafael Nadal to two.

Nadal sits top with 33 wins with Djokovic now two behind him on 31.

And Federer was quick to credit his victor on Sunday.

“Congratulations Novak on making history today,” Federer said. “Not just today, but on your whole career.

“To get to this point is an amazing achievement and you should be very proud, well done.

“It’s been a great week. The rain was tough on players but we had a great time. Getting the sunshine for the final was a wonderful treat.

“It’s nice to see this tournament grow, it’s one of my favourite to play. It’s been a treat to be back after missing out for two years, I hope to be back next year.”