Novak Djokovic began his quest for a historic 25th Grand Slam title with a commanding 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 victory over qualifier Radu Albot in the first round of the U.S. Open on Monday. This win not only marks a successful return to the court following his Olympic triumph but also solidifies Djokovic’s status as the player with the most wins by a male at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Despite securing the victory, Djokovic, who recently claimed the singles title at the Paris Games, struggled to find his rhythm in the night match. The 37-year-old Serbian star faced challenges with his serve and recorded nearly twice as many unforced errors as winners. Nevertheless, his vast experience and skill set were more than enough to overcome Albot, a 34-year-old Moldovan journeyman who had previously bested Djokovic’s younger brothers, Marko and Djordje, earlier in their careers.
In this first-ever encounter with Albot, Djokovic avenged his family’s losses, albeit in a performance that showed some rust. He wrapped up the match with a powerful serve, setting the stage for an all-Serbian showdown against Laslo Djere in the second round.
With 24 Grand Slam titles already to his name, tying the all-time record held by Margaret Court, Djokovic is aiming to make history by claiming the record outright at Flushing Meadows. He will undoubtedly look to sharpen his game as the tournament progresses.
