Novak Djokovic began his attempt to win a record 25th Grand Slam title with a straight-sets win over Learner Tien in the first round of the US Open.
The 38-year-old Serbian won 6-1, 7-6 (3), 6-2, despite needing a medical break to treat a blister on his right foot. The match started quickly but became more difficult in the second set.
Speaking after the match, Djokovic said it was great to be back in New York. He said the match felt strange because the first set was quick while the second took much longer. He added that staying calm in the second set was important and he was pleased with the result overall.
Djokovic also mentioned how he now has to manage his energy carefully at his age, but said he still feels motivated and full of energy, thanks to the support of the fans.
He had not played a match since losing in the Wimbledon semi-finals and skipped recent tournaments in Toronto and Cincinnati to prepare for the US Open.
Despite some signs of rust, Djokovic showed his usual quality, starting strongly and winning the first set easily. Tien put up more of a fight in the second set and even had a chance to break Djokovic’s serve at 5-4, but the Serbian held on and won the set in a tie-break.
After taking a break for foot treatment, Djokovic came out refreshed, quickly going 5-1 up in the third set. Tien saved a match point and broke Djokovic’s serve, but the world number two broke back straight away to secure the win.
Djokovic will face American qualifier Zachary Svajda in the next round.
