Novak Djokovic worked hard to advance past his compatriot Laslo Djere, securing a 6-4, 6-4, 2-0 victory before the World No. 109 retired. Nole entered the match as the heavy favorite after a strong first-round performance, but Djere stepped onto the court fearlessly, challenging the World No. 2, especially in the second set.
Djokovic moves past Djere
A year ago, these two players faced each other in the same round on the same stage. Back then, Djere gave the 24-time Grand Slam champion a scare, taking a two-set lead before Djokovic mounted a comeback and secured a crucial victory en route to the title.
In this match, played indoors at Arthur Ashe Stadium due to rain, both players had plenty of break opportunities, particularly in the first set. Djokovic squandered four break points, while Djere (World No. 118) also failed to capitalize on three chances. However, Nole delivered when it mattered most, breaking Djere's serve while leading 5-4 to clinch the first set 6-4, despite Djokovic's struggle with his first serve, landing only 44% compared to Djere's 73%.
Novak Djokovic at the Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The second set started similarly, with both players engaging in closely contested games. The surprise came in the third game when Djere secured a break to go up 3-1, later extending his lead to 4-2. However, Djokovic avoided the danger he faced in 2023, shifting gears to win the next four games in a row, taking the second set 6-4.
Despite being two sets down, Djere was performing well against his compatriot. Unfortunately, physical issues prevented him from finishing the match. He retired due to abdominal problems after Djokovic broke serve in the third set, abruptly ending the match 6-4, 6-4, 2-0.
Djokovic advances to the third round of the tournament and achieves his 90th win at the US Open, breaking the tie with Roger Federer to become second in all-time wins at the tournament, trailing only Jimmy Connors, who holds 98 US Open victories. Nole also becomes the first player to secure at least 90 wins at each of the Grand Slams. In the third round, he will face the recent Canadian Open champion, Alexei Popyrin (28th seed).
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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