The US Open’s first round is set to commence on Monday, with the world’s top players battling for Grand Slam glory in New York. Novak Djokovic will start his quest for a fifth Flushing Meadows title against Moldovan Radu Albot, while Coco Gauff will begin her title defence against Varvara Gracheva from France.
Djokovic, who recently won the Olympic gold in Paris, will have to quickly shake off any rust as he faces Albot for the first time in his career under the lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium. After completing the career Golden Slam – winning all four Grand Slam titles and the Olympic gold – Djokovic is determined to claim his 25th major crown, surpassing Margaret Court for the all-time record. No man has been able to defend the trophy in New York since 2008, and Djokovic is determined to break that streak this year.
“That’s my goal. I always strive to reach the finals and compete for the trophy. My mindset and approach remain the same this year,” Djokovic stated. “People often ask me, ‘Now that you’ve achieved the Golden Slam, what more is there to win?’ But I still feel the drive and competitive spirit. I still want to make history and inspire young people to watch and play tennis.”
After struggling performances in Paris, Toronto, and Cincinnati, Gauff will aim to find her top form at the venue where she won her only major title. “Being the defending champion brings a bit of pressure, but it’s also a privilege because, as my new motto goes, defending means you’ve won something before,” Gauff expressed. “I’m excited to be back and hopefully have a successful two weeks.”
