Djokovic Starts Strong in Quest for 25th Grand Slam
Novak Djokovic began his journey towards a record 25th Grand Slam title with a commanding straight-sets victory over Radu Albot at the US Open on Monday. The four-time champion, playing for the first time since winning Olympic gold two weeks ago, defeated the Moldovan qualifier 6-2, 6-2, 6-4.
Entering Arthur Ashe Stadium for his 40th career night match at the tournament, Djokovic carried two gold bags over his shoulder, a nod to his recent Olympic success in Paris. The 37-year-old, who lost both his Australian and French Open titles this year, was largely unchallenged by the 138th-ranked Albot, who has never beaten a top 10 player. This victory marked Djokovic’s 78th win on the sport’s biggest stage.
“The night sessions here are the best in the world, and since the roof was added, it’s gotten even louder,” Djokovic said. “There’s an incredible energy, and with the new rule this year allowing the crowd to move around, there are a lot of things happening.”
Djokovic, seeded second behind world number one Jannik Sinner, aims to become the first man to defend his US Open title since Roger Federer’s five consecutive wins from 2004 to 2008.
Gauff Dominates in Title Defense
Coco Gauff began her US Open title defense with a decisive 6-2, 6-0 win over Varvara Gracheva. The third seed fired 10 aces and took just 66 minutes to dispatch the 66th-ranked Gracheva. Gauff also saved eight break points, including two with aces in the final game.
“There’s definitely a lot of pressure at this tournament, but I’m just enjoying it,” said Gauff, who is seeded third behind world number one Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka. “Last year was incredible, so I’m just bringing those vibes and whatever happens, happens.”
Despite an erratic season since winning her first major, Gauff showed signs of returning to form with this impressive performance.
Thiem’s Final Bow
American Ben Shelton kicked off play on Ashe with a 6-4, 6-2, 6-2 victory over 2020 champion Dominic Thiem. Shelton’s win marked the end of Thiem’s Grand Slam career, as the Austrian, plagued by injuries in recent years, has announced he will retire at the end of 2024.
“I just want to say thanks for all the support,” Thiem told the fans. “It’s been 10 years since I first played here, and I had my greatest success on this court.”
