Novak Djokovic began his bid for a record 25th Grand Slam singles title with a straight-sets win at the US Open on Sunday, but admitted his fitness levels left him worried.
The 38-year-old Serb defeated 19-year-old American Learner Tien 6-1, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 in two hours and 25 minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium. Yet his victory was punctuated by a medical timeout to treat a blister on his right foot and a dip in stamina during the second set.
“I started great — just over 20 minutes, first set, I felt really good,” Djokovic said afterwards. “Then some long games to start the second set… I really was surprised how bad I was feeling physically. It’s slightly a concern. I don’t have any injury, but I struggled to stay in long exchanges and recover after points.”
Djokovic, who last played competitively in his Wimbledon semi-final loss last month, skipped the Masters events in Toronto and Cincinnati to prepare for New York. That decision showed in flashes of brilliance against Tien — particularly in a commanding opening set and a composed tiebreak to close out the second.
After receiving treatment to his foot, Djokovic raced to a 5-1 lead in the third set. Tien briefly extended the contest by breaking serve at 5-2, but Djokovic immediately broke back to seal the win.
“I wish I had Learner Tien’s age — when you come to the late 30s it’s about learning how to preserve the energy for what matters,” Djokovic told the crowd. “I still have the flair, I still have the drive, and you guys give me the energy. Hopefully I can keep it going.”
Djokovic will face American qualifier Zachary Svajda in the second round.
