The US Open: A Look Back

As many tennis fans will likely agree, the last few weeks have been dragging.  The US Open marked the end of an invigorating tennis season, minus the Davis Cup and a few minor tournaments still to come. While the Aussie Open commences Jan. 19, I suppose we can look back on a year of brilliant tennis, and decide for ourselves what we loved and what we loathed.  I've been doing some reflecting in light of this year's roller coaster of an Open and came up with my top five most beloved and significant moments in recent United States Open history.

5. First Match, First Tantrum

In 1977, John McEnroe played his first ever first round match at the US Open. The match itself was not spectacular. In fact, I cannot even recall the opponent. However, during this contest, McEnroe received his first US Open conduct violation—a custom he used to tarnish his entire graceful career.

4. The Straw that Broke the Camel's Back (err, the Tennis Player's Back)

The year 1981 was a splendid one for Björn Borg, just as the few years prior had been. He was beautifully winning Roland Garros but was coming to the '81 Open final with a thirst for the crown. Just months before, Borg had been defeated by young nemesis John McEnroe to lose his Wimbledon crown, halting the quest for an unseen sixth consecutive championship trophy.

Borg met McEnroe again in the final in New York and—as in London—took the first set 6-4. McEnroe went on to rally back and defend his title. This marked only the beginning for the affectionately deemed "Spoiled Brat" as he would go on to win tournaments through 1992. The 1981 loss broke the Ice-Borg and Björn would never play another Grand Slam tournament again.

3. Bowing Out in Style

After 33 tournaments without a title, 31-year-old Pete Sampras' ranking dropped to No. 17.  With straight set losses in the past two years' Open finals, he knew his time might be coming to an end in 2002. He again reached the final, but this time saw a familiar face across the court. It was none other than long-time rival Andre Agassi.

Two veterans took the stage with "Pistol Pete" coming out on top of the four set novelty. Though not formally announced until 12 months thereafter, Sampras ended his career with this 14th Grand Slam victory.

2. Back and Makin' History 

Perhaps it is premature to lump in a situation from this past event, but we cannot overlook Roger Federer's superb fortnight show to win his sole major title of 2008 and become the only man to win two different Grand Slams, each five consecutive times. After an un-Federer-like year, Roger was able to quiet the critics and play at a level—especially in the final—that would have easily beaten anybody. Not as if he hadn't already, but the Swiss proved his name to be worthy of the history books. 

1. Americans at the Open

No commemorative match list is complete without a mention of the epic Sampras-Agassi 2001 quarterfinal that lasted 6-7, 7-6, 7-6, 7-6 without even one break of serve. This was a moment where the two loveliest Americans became ignited at the US Open. By the end, both were drenched in sweat and physically, mentally and emotionally exhausted. The largest court in the world witnessed possibly the largest display of will that has yet to be recreated by any contender.