Tennis “Majors” are not just about the names of recognized legends. They thrive on pure excitement and unpredictability, which keeps millions of fans around the world watching every match. For those looking for thrills and believing in unexpected outcomes, there are platforms such as 1xBet Sri Lanka where you can bet on your favorite. But in 2014, on the courts of Flushing Meadows, the sensation came from a completely unpredictable source – Croatian Marin Čilić.
The “Big Four” in the shadows
By 2014, world tennis dominance was firmly held by the quartet of Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray. Fans around the world, accustomed to seeing only these names in the finals, rarely bet on anyone else. Pure sporting excitement was fuelled both on and off the court. Many thrill-seekers from Sri Lanka and other countries looked for high odds on outsiders on platforms such as 1xBet in order to place successful bets. Marin Čilić, seeded 14th and ranked 16th in the ATP rankings, was outside this elite circle. His career had recently been marred by a doping scandal and disqualification. No one bet on this quiet giant with a powerful serve. His main weapon was the mentorship of his idol and compatriot, 2001 Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanišević.
The road to legend: the defeat of the titans
With each victory, Čilić’s confidence grew, and his serve became increasingly destructive. The climax came in the semifinals: Čilić sensationally defeated Roger Federer in three sets (6–3, 6–4, 6–4). It was an incredible domination that forced many fans who love high stakes and risky games like crash point 1xBet to reconsider their predictions.
To achieve his first and only Grand Slam title, Čilić had to defeat several more world-class stars. In the decisive rounds, he showed that his victory was no fluke:
- Fourth round. Victory over Frenchman Gilles Simon in a five-set marathon (5–7, 7–6(3), 6–4, 3–6, 6–3).
- Quarterfinal. A confident victory over the strong Czech Tomas Berdych (6–2, 6–4, 7–6(4)).
- Semifinal. A sensational defeat of Roger Federer (6–3, 6–4, 6–4).
- Final. A decisive victory over Japan’s Kei Nishikori (6–3, 6–3, 6–3).
All three of his last victories – the quarterfinal, semifinal, and final – were won in three sets! The 2014 final was a real treat for fans who love excitement and unpredictability. Čilić’s victory earned him his 12th title and the title of Croatia’s second Major champion. For those who bet on the underdog or played crash point on the 1xBet website, this triumph proved that anything is possible in sports. Marin Čilić’s “long road” to 9th place in the rankings, which ended with a victory at the US Open, is an inspiring example of athletic perseverance.
