Novak Djokovic began his quest for a record 25th Grand Slam singles title with a convincing victory over Radu Albot in the first round of the US Open.
Winning one more major would give Djokovic the all-time record for the most Grand Slam singles titles, surpassing Margaret Court, with whom he is currently tied at 24.
The 37-year-old secured a 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 win in his first match since winning Olympic gold 23 days ago.
Serbia’s Djokovic, who has claimed nearly every title in tennis, called his victory in Paris his “biggest sporting achievement.”
Despite his success, he is still seeking his first Grand Slam title of the year, having won at least one every year since 2017.
Before the match, defending champion Djokovic joked that he wanted to “avenge” his younger brothers, Djordje and Marko, who both previously lost to Moldova’s Albot.
“I feel like there was so much at stake – I feel like there was revenge for my younger brothers,” Djokovic, who had never faced Albot before, told ESPN afterwards.
Djokovic will face fellow Serbian Laslo Djere in the second round on Wednesday.
Despite the straightforward win, there are areas where Djokovic can improve. He hit 10 double faults and 40 unforced errors, with just 47% of his first serves landing in play.
Playing under a closed roof at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Djokovic took 33 minutes to secure the opening set, breaking Albot twice before serving out the set.
Although he started well, the four-time US Open champion frequently showed frustration towards his player’s box and seemed to be affected by the humid conditions.
Djokovic was still wearing knee support, which he has used since undergoing surgery in June.
After an early break of serve in the second set, Albot fought back to level at 2-2, but Djokovic responded by winning the next four games.
The world number 138 managed to hold off Djokovic longer in the third set, saving five break points. However, Djokovic finally broke through at 3-3 and sealed the win just as the clock struck midnight in New York.
“I love playing night sessions but maybe not this late,” Djokovic said in his on-court interview.
“Nevertheless it was great fun and I want to thank everyone for staying.”
The victory also allowed Djokovic to set another record – the most wins (78) by a male player on Flushing Meadows’ main showcourt.
“It’s the biggest stadium. Definitely the loudest we have in the history of our sport,” Djokovic added.
“The night sessions are the best in the world on Arthur Ashe.”
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