If Thursday's performance was anything to go by, then it looks like
Novak Djokovic is the man to beat at the 2021
US Open as he cruised by Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor to reach the third round.
The World No.1 required only an hour and 39 minutes to secure his 6-2 6-3 6-2 victory, making it absolutely clear that he's on a mission to complete the calendar Grand Slam.
The Serbian was flawless from the baseline, putting on a clinic as he dictated play from both wings. Additionally, Djokovic hit an impressive 13 aces, coupled with 33 winners that left his 25-year old opponent flustered.
With another victory in his pocket, the top seed will face a familiar foe in
Kei Nishikori, whom Djokovic holds an impressive 17-2 lead over in career meetings. However, Nishikori can take solace in the fact that one of his victories over the 20-time Grand Slam champion came in the semifinals of the 2014 US Open, where the Japanese superstar eventually finished runner-up to
Marin Cilic.