Novak Djokovic won his US Open first-round match, earning him the title of Arthur Ashe’s monarch.
The four-time champion set a record by winning 78 games on the main showcourt at Flushing Meadows by defeating Radu Albot in straight sets. He now has 89 US Open victories, level with Roger Federer, after defeating the qualifier 6-2 6-2 6-4.
To be honest, I had no idea about it, he remarked. It’s the largest stadium in our sport’s history and unquestionably the loudest.
“The Arthur Ashe night sessions are the best in the world, and the noise level has increased with the addition of the roof.” Electric atmosphere. Amazing vigour. There are obviously a lot of activities taking place on the court, especially with the new rules this year that allow the fans to wander around.
“We are currently clocking in at midnight. Even if it wasn’t this late, I still think night sessions are a lot of fun. I believe I launched the competition properly, as I had hoped.
Before the match, Djokovic had made threats against Albot, promising to exact revenge on his brothers, Marko and Djordje, who had both suffered defeats at the hands of the little-known Moldovan.
“Hopefully I can avenge my brothers tonight,” the Serb declared prior to his victory. “Both of my younger brothers faced him and they both lost to him.”
Dominic Thiem, the 2020 US Open winner, has ended his Grand Slam career, but Djokovic continued to move forward.
After receiving a wild card entry, the Austrian, who has been plagued by ailments recently, fell in straight sets against American 13th seed Ben Shelton.
According to Thiem, he is “happy” to be retiring from tennis and is excited about what lies ahead.
He remarked, “I was struggling enough the last few years, especially since I couldn’t get back to my level.” However, as soon as I made the decision in March of this year, I was content with it.
“It goes without saying that I was also able to be ready for this upcoming new phase. I was really patient and always loved going on tour, but to be honest, I also always loved being at home and trying to live a normal life there, as much as possible.
And for that reason, I’m particularly excited about this one—that normal life is finally here. Because of this, I don’t think it will be too difficult for me, and I’m also rather pleased with my choice.
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