Novak Djokovic smoothly advanced to the second round of the US Open on Monday night, despite some issues to address in his game. Competing at Flushing Meadows for the first time since March and following his Olympic gold triumph on clay, Djokovic’s performance had its imperfections, including 10 double faults, just 47 percent of first serves in play, and 40 unforced errors.
Nevertheless, the four-time champion dominated his first match against Radu Albot, winning 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 in two hours and seven minutes, wrapping up just before midnight. Djokovic humorously noted before the match that he sought to avenge prior losses inflicted on his brothers, Marko and Djordje, by Albot, marking his 78th win at Arthur Ashe Stadium, tying him with Roger Federer for the most wins at the US Open with 89. Jimmy Connors holds the record with 98 victories.
“I wanted to kick start the tournament in the right way and I think I did,” Djokovic said, reflecting on the match. He acknowledged some inconsistencies, attributing them to his return to hard courts after a six-month absence and his experiences at the Olympic Games.
As he aims for his 25th major title, which would surpass Margaret Court for the most all-time, Djokovic will face fellow Serbian Laslo Djere in the next round. Djere progressed after defeating Jan-Lennard Struff in a five-set match.
Currently ranked No. 2 in the PIF ATP Rankings, Djokovic is also in pursuit of his 100th career title during this tournament. With a strong season record of 30-7, the 37-year-old has a remarkable 62-1 Grand Slam record against players outside the Top 100 and is 41-0 at the US Open against players outside the Top 50. Albot, ranked 138th, fell to a 107-147 record overall following his tenth main draw appearance at the US Open.
Albot briefly gained momentum in the second set with a break at 2-all and reached 40/0 on his serve, but Djokovic quickly countered, winning five straight points to regain control of the match.