Rafael Nadal beats Novak Djokovic to win second US Open title

Rafael Nadal beat world number one Novak Djokovic in a pulsating four-set final to claim his second US Open title in New York.

The Spaniard, 27, held on magnificently in the third set to go on and win a gripping contest 6-2 3-6 6-4 6-1 in three hours and 21 minutes.

One incredible 54-shot rally - the longest in the tournament by 20 shots - summed up a battle that thrilled the 23,000 spectators in Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Nadal has now won 13 Grand Slam singles titles and moves within one of Pete Sampras in the all-time list, with Roger Federer leading on 17.

And after missing last year's US Open during a seven-month absence with a knee injury, Nadal is now set to regain the number one ranking.

- BBC.co.uk