Novak Djokovic has battled into the third round of the US Open after a comeback win over Zachary Svajda.
Djokovic beat Svajda 6-7(5-7), 6-3, 6-3, 6-1, overcoming the American qualifier after two hours and 35 minutes at Flushing Meadows.
The Serbian veteran has won the US Open on four occasions, most recently in 2023, which represents his most recent Grand Slam title.
Djokovic loved the US Open fans in his first round win over Learner Tien at Arthur Ashe Stadium, which also played host to his second round match.
The former ATP number one has now reached the third round of the hard court Grand Slam for the 19th time in his career, although it hasn’t all been smooth sailing thus far despite the success.
What Novak Djokovic said to Zachary Svajda at the net after their US Open match
Andy Roddick was concerned for Djokovic going into his second round match, with the Serbian adding to that concern with his admission after the win.
He said on court: “I didn’t feel that great to be honest. I wasn’t happy with my tennis for the first part of the match, but also credit to Zach for playing some really high-quality tennis.
“It was unfortunate that he struggled with injury towards the end of the second set, but kudos to him for staying on the court.
“It was obvious he couldn’t serve as well as he did for a set and a half. I wished him all the best at the net because I think he’s playing really well.”
What Novak Djokovic is hoping for at the US Open after reaching the third round
Svajda did indeed tail off as the match went on, with the 22-year-old American having been hampered by a leg issue.
And his opponent was as classy as ever after knocking him out, with Djokovic having been in that situation many times during his outstanding career.
He incidentally doesn’t seem 100% in New York, although the 38-year-old is upbeat ahead of his next match.
Asked how much more rhythm he finds going deeper in big events, Djokovic replied: “That’s what I’m hoping [for], that was the case for most of my Grand Slam career. The deeper I go in the tournament, the better I feel about my game.
“It’s obviously a little different in the past couple of years for me body-wise, I get wear and tear quicker than I ever used to so I have to deal with that, a lot of recovery stuff to try to make myself able to perform at the highest level.”
With 24 Grand Slam titles won, the legendary figure already boasts one of the best honours lists in sport, but he is clearly still aiming to add to that list.
Whether or not he can do that, however, remains to be seen, with the matches very likely only going to be more difficult physically and mentally as the tournament goes on.
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