Djokovic begins quest for 25th Grand Slam title with US Open victory
NEW YORK: Novak Djokovic’s pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title began with a decisive 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 victory over qualifier Radu Albot in the U.S. Open first round on Monday. Fresh off his Olympic singles title win in Paris just three weeks ago, the defending champion returned to the court at Arthur Ashe Stadium, though not without showing signs of rust.
Despite his recent triumph, the 37-year-old Serbian struggled to find his usual rhythm, particularly with his serve. Djokovic committed nearly twice as many unforced errors as winners, revealing a lack of the “golden touch” that has defined his stellar career. However, his vast experience and superior skills were more than enough to overpower the Moldovan journeyman Albot in their first-ever tour encounter.
Although Djokovic had never faced Albot before, he came prepared, having studied the 34-year-old who had previously defeated Djokovic’s younger brothers, Marko and Djordje, in their playing days. Avenging those family losses, Djokovic dispatched Albot in three somewhat rusty sets, ending the match with a powerful serve.
Djokovic now advances to an all-Serbian showdown against Laslo Djere in the second round, where he will continue his quest for a historic 25th Grand Slam title.
