Novak Djokovic hit a wall against Learner Tien in the first round of the US Open. He went on to win that match impressively, 6-1, 7-6, 6-2. The match unfolded at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, where Djokovic, a four-time champion in New York, faced some physical challenges but ultimately advanced to the next round.
Pitifully, that match showed how grotesquely uneven the length of the sets can be. The first set was a brisk 20 minutes, but the second set felt like a grueling hour and 20 minutes. His groundstrokes got heavier and heavier and with them, he started breaking for the 3-1 final set lead. This victory was Djokovic’s 80th win at Arthur Ashe Stadium, further cementing his legacy at the major.
Even with his match history, Djokovic competently admitted that he struggled throughout the match. He needed medical attention for a blood blister on his right foot and had trouble sustaining energy over the course of long rallies.
“Good thing is that I have two days off. It’s slightly a concern. I don’t have an injury or anything. I just struggled to stay in long exchanges and recover after points.” – Novak Djokovic
Djokovic is looking to win an unprecedented 25th major title. This victory is hugely important for him, especially as he has not won a Grand Slam title in two years. His most recent victory at a Grand Slam came just this past September at the 2023 US Open.
Djokovic went up against Tien in a heated showdown on the court. He indeed had a fiery exchange with the chair umpire, reminding us all that this competition was about blood. In doing so, he became the first player since the advent of professional tennis in 1968 to record 75 straight first-round wins at Grand Slam tournaments. Incredibly, he won 55 of those matches in straight sets.
Djokovic will take on Zachary Svajda in the second round. He’s intent on capturing yet another championship at this distinguished event. Djokovic faces a short turnaround with his next match coming in two days. Of course, with history within his reach, all eyes will be on how he handles his body and avoids distraction in his chase for history.
