Novak Djokovic, the defending US Open champion, advanced to the third round in New York after a grueling match against his fellow Serb Laslo Djere ended prematurely due to an injury. Djokovic was leading 6-4, 6-4, 2-0 when Djere was forced to retire due to an abdominal issue, cutting short a match that had already lasted over two hours in extreme heat and humidity at Flushing Meadows.
Despite the match concluding after just over two sets, it was a hard-fought contest that saw both players struggle with the challenging conditions on court. “It was a big fight, more than two hours for two sets,” Djokovic said. “I served awful, and without the serve, you have to grind, you have to run.”
A Fierce First Set
The first set was fiercely contested, with the players engaging in long rallies and showing remarkable resilience. Djokovic, who was visibly affected by the heat and humidity, struggled with his serve and had to dig deep into his reserves to keep up with Djere. The two fought for over an hour before Djokovic managed to find an extra gear, breaking Djere’s serve to love to take the set 6-4.
Djokovic received treatment after the first set, appearing to be struggling with the intense humidity. His early difficulties on serve allowed Djere to sense an opportunity, and he seized it by earning an early break in the second set, moving ahead 4-2.
A Turning Point in the Second Set
With Djere in control and holding two break points that could have leveled the match at one set apiece, Djokovic found a way to hold serve. The momentum shifted when Djere began to show signs of discomfort. Djokovic broke back immediately in the next game, turning the tide in his favor. A medical timeout for Djere did little to alleviate his condition, and Djokovic pounced, breaking his opponent again to take the second set 6-4.
A Courageous Attempt Cut Short
Despite the visible pain, Djere attempted to soldier on in the third set. However, after failing to win a point in the first two games, he walked to the net and retired from the match, conceding victory to Djokovic. This victory marked Djokovic’s 90th win at Flushing Meadows, making him the only man in history to have won 90 matches at all four Grand Slam tournaments. “It doesn’t get bigger than this in terms of a tennis stage,” the 37-year-old said after the match. “The atmosphere is incredible, and it’s a great privilege to be able to play here again at my age.”
Looking Ahead to Round Three
Djokovic’s focus now turns to his next opponent, 28th seed Alexei Popyrin of Australia, in the third round. The 37-year-old will be looking to continue his quest for a record-extending 24th Grand Slam title, though he acknowledges that his path will not be easy. Popyrin, known for his powerful serve and aggressive playstyle, could pose a significant challenge, especially given the challenging conditions in New York.
As Djokovic advances further into the tournament, he remains determined to keep pushing his limits, drawing on his experience and fitness to navigate the intense matches and challenging conditions. “These are the moments we live for,” he added. “Every match is a new challenge, and I’m ready to take them on.”
With the US Open now entering its critical stages, all eyes will be on Djokovic as he seeks to add another title to his illustrious career, demonstrating once again why he is one of the greatest players of all time.
