Djokovic secures an unparalleled 67th straight first-round win in Grand Slams
US Open 2023
Location: Flushing Meadows, New York Schedule: August 28-September 10
Media Coverage: Extensive live text and audio coverage available on Sport Newes Center’s website, app, along with BBC Radio 5 Live and 5 Sports Extra.
After a seemingly effortless victory in his comeback to the US Open, Novak Djokovic is poised to reclaim the men’s world number one ranking from young sensation Carlos Alcaraz.
The Serbian tennis icon, who had been bested by Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final, cruised to a 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 win over France’s Alexandre Muller in a night match at Flushing Meadows.
Last year, Djokovic, now 36, couldn’t compete in the U.S. due to not having received a Covid-19 vaccination.
Upon his return, Djokovic is eyeing yet another significant milestone: tying Margaret Court’s record by capturing his 24th major title.
The veteran player signaled his intent right out of the gate, dispatching 84th-ranked Muller with seeming ease.
Djokovic reflected on his performance, “I started off like a house on fire. Even though we kicked off late, I was amped to get back out there—it’s been a while. I dialed back a bit on my serve in the subsequent sets, making me sweat for my points. But all in all, the game felt good.”
Kicking off late at 11 p.m. local time didn’t deter the three-time US Open champ. He sailed through the first set in just 23 minutes, losing a mere eight points.
A momentarily ecstatic Muller managed to finally score in the second set, making it 2-1. However, that was merely a footnote as Djokovic continued to widen the gap.
In the third set, Muller put up a stiffer fight but ultimately folded as Djokovic clinched the last four games, wrapping up the win in one hour and 34 minutes.
In other news:
- Gauff navigates US Open jitters as Swiatek sails through
- Miyazaki speaks on how US Open earnings could be a game-changer for his career
- Rune departs in the opening round, Thiem notches an emotional victory
- Murray finds his groove just in time for the US Open
With this win, Djokovic, who already has the Australian and French Opens under his belt this year, sets his sights on a fourth US Open title. His next opponent is Spain’s Bernabe Zapata Miralles.
As for Alcaraz, the 20-year-old defending champion and first seed, will begin his title defense against Germany’s Dominik Koepfer.
The two top seeds, Alcaraz and Djokovic, have cultivated an intriguing rivalry over the past year. Although they couldn’t consistently face off due to various circumstances, their matchup has become increasingly electric. They’ve had three gripping face-offs—the French Open semis, the Wimbledon final, and the Cincinnati final this month.
Due to their seeding, these two titans of tennis won’t have a showdown at the US Open until the ultimate match—the final.
Stay tuned for live scores, results, and the schedule of play. And for all you drama lovers, check out James Nesbitt in a heart-wrenching drama about a father’s search for his missing child. On a lighter note, get a sneak peek into London’s ritziest hotel, where a night’s stay can cost you up to £27,000!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Novak Djokovic US Open 2023
Who is set to replace Carlos Alcaraz as the men’s world number one in tennis?
Novak Djokovic is set to reclaim the men’s world number one ranking from Carlos Alcaraz following his first-round victory at the US Open 2023.
Why was Novak Djokovic not allowed to play in the United States last year?
Novak Djokovic was not permitted to play in the United States last year because he had not been vaccinated against Covid-19.
What major milestone is Djokovic targeting with another title win?
Djokovic is eyeing a record-equalling 24th major title, which would tie him with Margaret Court for the most Grand Slam wins in tennis history.
Who did Djokovic defeat in the first round of the US Open 2023?
Djokovic won against France’s Alexandre Muller with a scoreline of 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 in the first round of the US Open 2023.
What time did Djokovic’s match start and how long did it last?
Djokovic’s match against Muller started at 11:00 p.m. local time and concluded in one hour and 34 minutes.
Who will Djokovic face in the second round?
In the second round of the US Open, Djokovic is set to play against Spain’s Bernabe Zapata Miralles.
Who is the current defending champion of the men’s singles at the US Open?
The current defending champion is Carlos Alcaraz, who won his first major at the US Open last year.
What has been the recent rivalry situation between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic?
Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic have developed an intriguing rivalry over the past 12 months. They have had three significant matches: the French Open semi-finals, the Wimbledon final, and the Cincinnati final.
When could Alcaraz and Djokovic potentially meet at the US Open 2023?
Due to their current rankings as the top two seeds, Alcaraz and Djokovic could potentially face each other only in the final match of the US Open 2023.
Are there any other interesting matches or players to look out for?
While the focus is heavily on Djokovic and Alcaraz, other notable players and matches include Gauff, who survived a scare, Swiatek, who cruised through, and Murray, who seems to have rediscovered his form just in time for the US Open.
More about Novak Djokovic US Open 2023
- US Open Official Website
- Novak Djokovic’s Career Stats
- Carlos Alcaraz’s ATP Profile
- BBC Sport Tennis Coverage
- History of Grand Slam Winners
- Covid-19 Vaccination Guidelines for Athletes
- Margaret Court’s All-Time Record
- Overview of ATP Rankings
- Previous US Open Winners
- Tennis News Updates
- Djokovic vs Alcaraz Rivalry Analysis
- In-depth Wimbledon Coverage
9 comments
Starting at 11pm and still crushing it? Djokovic’s more of a night owl than me, and I thought I was bad, staying up for Netflix marathons haha
cant believe Djokovic is 36 and still kickin’ it at the top. the man’s a legend, no doubt.
Djokovic tying Margaret Court? Now thats a headline I wanna see. Cmon Nole!
I was there and the crowd went nuts when Muller scored lol. but seriously, the Djoker is on another level.
Muller got schooled, plain and simple. But hats off to him for finally gettin a point in the 2nd set. U could almost hear him say “momma, I made it!”
Alcaraz’s gotta step up now, otherwise Djoko will snatch that crown real quick. Gonna be a sick final if they both make it there!
67th straight win in first round of majors? That’s like, what, 17 years of not screwing up your opener. Mad respect.
Wow, Djokovic is back in the game and how! Was about time someone gave Alcaraz a run for his money.
Tennis is gettin as exciting as the latest Marvel movie. With Djoko & Alcaraz, it’s like watching the old guard vs the new generation. Can’t wait for the final!