Djokovic heralds Wawrinka´s entry into ´big five´

Novak Djokovic believes Stan Wawrinka’s maiden US Open triumph has established a ‘big five’ in men’s tennis.

Wawrinka fought back to dethrone the world number one by winning 6-7 (1-7) 6-4 7-5 6-3 in Sunday’s final at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The only grand slam title to have eluded Wawrinka is Wimbledon following his heroics at Flushing Meadows, but the 31-year-old still thinks he is “very far” from the so called ‘big four’ of Djokovic, Andy Murray, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

Twelve-time major champion Djokovic begged to differ after missing out on a third US Open title.

“He plays best in the big matches and definitely deserves to be mentioned in the mix of top players,” said the Serb.

Wawrinka, who has now won 11 consecutive finals, occupies third spot in the rankings but does not consider himself to be in the same bracket as the aforementioned quartet.

“Just look at the tournaments they have won, how many years they’ve been there,” said Wawrinka, who has won just one Masters-level tournament.

“If you look, yes, I have three grand slams. How many Masters 1000 has Murray [12]? They have been there 10 years.

“They have not only been winning, but being in semi-finals, final every time. That’s why I’m not there.