Djokovic Achieves Milestone with 75th Consecutive Grand Slam Opening Round Win

NEW YORK: Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka successfully navigated their initial challenges to advance to the second round of the US Open on Sunday.

Djokovic overcame Learner Tien with a score of 6-1, 7-6(3), 6-2, commencing his quest for a record-extending 25th major title.

With this victory, the Serbian player has become the first since the Open Era began in 1968 to secure 75 consecutive first-round wins at Grand Slam tournaments.

Djokovic mentioned that he faced some physical difficulties during the match. He described the match as peculiar but expressed satisfaction with starting the tournament on a positive note.

“It was a rather unusual match,” Djokovic commented.

“The initial set concluded rapidly in just 20 minutes, whereas the second set extended to one hour and 20 minutes, creating a contrast between the two. Maintaining composure in the second set and winning the tiebreak was crucial for me.”

“Following that, my condition improved. While there’s always room for improvement, it’s an excellent way to begin this year’s campaign.”

In a parallel event, Aryna Sabalenka, the world’s top-ranked player, started her US Open title defense impressively, defeating Swiss player Rebeka Masarova 7-5, 6-1 on Sunday.

The three-time major champion faced some resistance in the first set but dominated her rival in the second set to secure the victory.

Sabalenka expressed concerns about the scheduling of her match, but winning alleviated those concerns, and she also noted her comfort with such schedules.

“I didn’t have a choice in playing on Sunday, but securing the win makes it feel great. It provides an additional day off, which can be advantageous or disadvantageous. I’ve grown accustomed to it and appreciate it,” Sabalenka stated.

“However, it’s only beneficial if you win the match. Consider the frustration of concluding the tournament on Sunday if you lose.”