Novak Djokovic defeats Federer to win Rogers Cup

Novak Djokovic of Serbia watches the ball after returning to Roger Federer of Switzerland in the final at the Rogers Cup on Sunday in Montreal, Canada. Djokovic beat Federer 7-6 (2), 2-6, 7-6 (2). PHOTO: AP

Novak Djokovic upset top-ranked Roger Federer 7-6 (2), 2-6, 7-6 (2) on Sunday to win the Rogers Cup, solidifying himself as a serious contender for the US Open.

"It's a dream come true to win such a strong tournament as this and to win against probably the best player ever in the sport," Djokovic said.

It was third-seeded Djokovic's fourth tournament win this year and his first win in five career matches against Federer, whose 16-match Rogers Cup winning streak came to an end with his defeat.

With wins over Andy Roddick and second-ranked Rafael Nadal in his previous rounds, Djokovic also became the first player to beat the world's top three players in the same tournament since Boris Becker defeated No. 3 Michael Stich, No. 1 Pete Sampras and No. 2 Goran Ivanisevic in succession in 1994 in Stockholm.

Federer broke Djokovic to finish off the second set but the Serbian broke back to open the third. Federer rallied to tie it at 4.

Djokovic took over in the tiebreaker, finishing off Federer with a drop shot followed by a lob that fell inside the line. Federer's attempted return through his legs struck the net and Djokovic fell to his knees to celebrate.