Novak Djokovic made history after winning his opening match at the 2024 US Open.
The Serbian began his quest for a fifth title at Flushing Meadows and 25th Grand Slam overall with a straight sets victory over Radu Albot.
The 37-year-old was the final match on Arthur Stadium and despite the long wait after Sloane Stephens’ match went three sets, Djokovic put on a show for the thousands in attendance.
After recording a straight-sets win, Novak Djokovic moved into the second round of the US Open and in the process he made another piece of history.
Which new record did Novak Djokovic set at the US Open that he wasn’t aware of?
Djokovic started slowly as he found himself 2-1 down in the first set, before winning five successive games to win the set and won the second set in similar fashion.
The second set was much more competitive, but Djokovic grabbed the crucial break in the third set to secure a 6-2 6-2 6-4 win.
Post match the second seed was informed that he has now won 89 matches at the US Open, putting him level with Roger Federer for the second-highest number of wins in the tournament’s history, which he did not know he had achieved until his post-match interview.
“I wasn’t aware of it to be honest.. It’s the biggest stadium. Definitely the loudest we have in the history of our sport,” Djokovic said.
“The night sessions are the best in the world on Arthur Ashe.. ever since the roof was introduced it became even louder. Electric atmosphere. Incredible energy.
“Obviously with some new rules this year with the crowd able to move around, there are a lot of things happening on court. I love the night seasons.. maybe not this late.. but nevertheless it was great fun.”
How did Novak Djokovic rate his US Open first round performance?
Djokovic’s 89th US Open win means only Jimmy Connors has more victories at the Grand Slam than him with 98.
After winning his first ever match against Albot, Djokovic maintained his unbeaten record in first round matches at the US Open, and is happy with the start to his 2024 campaign.
“I think it was a solid start,” Djokovic said. “Look, I struggled with my serve and the rhythm on certain shots. Overall from the back of the court I thought I played pretty well.
“It’s always challenging to start, particularly when you haven’t played on this surface for five, six months and coming off an Olympic gold and playing on clay.
“I haven’t had any official matches before the US Open, so I’m expecting to be probably challenged a little bit more in the opening rounds. Hopefully I can play better each day.”
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