Novak Djokovic continues breaking records,
reaching an incredible milestone in Grand Slams after defeating Laslo Djere
(No. 109) in the second round of the US Open. The 37-year-old player advanced
after his opponent retired, with Djokovic leading 6-4, 6-4, 2-0.
The 24-time
Grand Slam champion played for more than two hours in the first two sets and
had to overcome a difficult moment in the second set when he came back from
2-4, 15-40 to finally take the set and set the stage for the match's
conclusion.
"He
(Djere) had an injury that took him off the tour for some time and he is
struggling to come back physically to his level. He’s such a good player,”
Novak Djokovic said about his opponent. “It should’ve been his second set
honestly. He was 4-2 up, I don’t know whether me winning the second set put
more burden on him mentally. Overall it was a big fight. Over two hours for two
sets.”
In the
third round, he will face the recent Canadian Open champion Alexei Popyrin (No.
28). The Australian has improved significantly during this hardcourt swing,
recently securing his first Masters 1000 title and seeking to reach the fourth
round of a Slam for the first time in his career.
Djokovic
reached 90 wins at the US Open, becoming the first player to break the 90-win
mark at each of the four Grand Slams. The Serbian has an incredible 377-50
record (88.3%) considering the Australian Open (94-9), French Open (96-16),
Wimbledon (97-12), and now the US Open (90-13).
Additionally,
the 90 wins place him second in most victories at Flushing Meadows, surpassing
Roger Federer's 89, and trailing only Jimmy Connors with 98 wins. The world No.
2 currently has four titles at Flushing Meadows and, if he wins the trophy this
year, he will tie with the top titleholders Pete Sampras, Connors, and Federer,
all with five titles. So far, Djokovic has participated in the US Open 17 times
and reached the final on 10 occasions (record 4-6).
Djokovic won his 24th Grand Slam title at 2023 US Open.
The Serbian
has the chance in this tournament to reach his 25th Grand Slam title and
definitively surpass Margaret Court. Additionally, it could be his 100th career
title.
Moreover,
Djokovic seems well on his way to surpassing the 100-win mark at all Grand
Slams. This year, if he wins the title, he could reach 95 wins at the US Open,
meaning that in 2025, he could break the 100-win mark at each Grand Slam.
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.