Nishikori shocks Djokovic in US Open semis to become Japan's first Grand Slam singles finalist

World number one Novak Djokovic suffered a shock defeat in the semifinals of the US Open to Kei Nishikori, who became Japan's first Grand Slam singles finalist.

The 10th seed beat the top seeded Djokovic 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (7-4), 6-3 and will take on Marin Cilic for the title on Monday after the Croat shocked Roger Federer in straight sets.

Nishikori, coached by Michael Chang, responded superbly after losing the second set to seal his biggest win. He said that it is just an amazing feeling to beat the number one player, The BBC reported.

Nishikori said that he hopes it is big news in Japan, and added that he feels the support from his nation. The Japanese had needed 10 sets and more than eight hours to win his previous two matches, but produced a remarkable performance as temperatures hit 36 degree Celsius and humidity soared.

He said that it was really tough conditions and felt a little bit heavy and humid, and added that he guesses he likes long matches.

Few expected Nishikori, making his Grand Slam semi-final debut, to have the stamina to test Djokovic after his epic wins over Milos Raonic and Stan Wawrinka in previous rounds.

However, the Japanese player made the better start and went on to beat the Serb, who was playing in his 24th major semifinal.

Djokovic said that other than that second set his game was not even close to what he wanted it to be, and added that he made a lot of unforced errors and a lot of short balls.

The Serb said that he just wasn't himself.