'I'll be back' - South Africa's Anderson vows after losing U.S. Open

South Africa’s Kevin Anderson shouldered a continent’s hopes of winning a major tennis tournament but failed as he lost to Spain’s Rafael Nadal.

The 31-year-old is, however, bent on going a step further next time. He lost to the Spaniard in three straight sets during the U.S. Open which is the final Grand Slam tournament of the season.

“I know we’re the same age but I feel like I’ve been watching you my whole life. You’re one of the toughest competitors in the game and one of the greatest ambassadors of our sport.

This isn't the result I always wanted but I'll keep fighting and I'll be back.

“This isn’t the result I always wanted but I’ll keep fighting and I’ll be back,” Anderson said after the end of the game.

To step on Arthur Ashe with RafaelNadal for my first Slam final was an honour. I look forward to sharing the court with you again soon 😊 pic.twitter.com/lojLczEeil

— Kevin Anderson (KAndersonATP) September 11, 2017

The only African to have won a Grand Slam is Johan Kriek of South Africa who won the Australian open twice in 1981 and 1982. He also made the semi-finals of the US and French Open in 1980 and 1986 respectively.