After three hours and 43 minutes, Nadal finally stood at championship point, and his place in history was secured when Djokovic sent a forehand long, prompting the world number one to fall to his knees in celebration while his family and friends leapt to their feet in the stands.

BBC: Rafael Nadal wins US Open to seal career Grand Slam

His place in history is secure, for he helped end the Cold War peacefully, and for that the world is grateful and respectful.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: ��In the name of God, Go!��