Novak Djokovic Overcomes Early Challenge to Advance in U.S. Open

New York, Aug 28 (AP) Novak Djokovic, in his quest for another U.S. Open title, displayed signs of vulnerability for the second match in a row. Dropping the first set against 145th-ranked American qualifier Zachary Svajda, Djokovic eventually found his rhythm to secure a spot in the third round. The 24-time Grand Slam champion battled back to win 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-3, 6-1 at Arthur Ashe Stadium, maintaining a flawless 36-0 record in the first and second rounds at this venue, where he has claimed four titles.

Svajda, a 22-year-old from San Diego, reflected on his unexpected first-set victory, expressing his surprise and excitement. “I really tried to soak it in and enjoy the moment, especially when I won the first set," Svajda remarked. “It kind of shocked me. I was like, Wow!”

Djokovic, who hasn’t competed since his Wimbledon semifinal loss to eventual champion Jannik Sinner while hampered by a groin injury, admitted post-match: “Not that great, to be honest.” Svajda noted the Serbian's rusty performance, observing, “He was missing a little bit,” and “He was getting a little frustrated.”

During his press conference, the 38-year-old Djokovic, now leading men in third-round Grand Slam appearances with 75, candidly discussed his internal struggles. “It's not a motivation thing. It's just like me a bit frustrated with my game,” he shared. “I'm just trying to be locked in. Just trying to solve the riddle once I'm on the court. I enjoy competing, but I don't enjoy not playing well.”

Djokovic's next opponent is British left-hander Cam Norrie, who reached the 2022 Wimbledon semifinals but is 0-6 against the Serbian. Norrie advanced after a grueling win over Francisco Comesana, prevailing 7-6 (5), 6-3, 6-7 (0), 7-6 (4).

Svajda reflected on his encounter with Djokovic, stating, “He does everything so well, which is incredible. It's Novak Djokovic, so there's not a big weakness.”

Meanwhile, tensions flared on Court 11 when Taylor Townsend and Jelena Ostapenko engaged in a post-match verbal spat following Townsend's 7-5, 6-1 victory. Townsend, ranked No. 1 in doubles, alleged that Ostapenko accused her of lacking "class" and "education."

In other U.S. Open developments, No. 5 seed Jack Draper withdrew due to an arm injury. Notable winners included reigning champion Aryna Sabalenka, last year's finalists Jessica Pegula and Taylor Fritz, as well as Carlos Alcaraz, Ben Shelton, Frances Tiafoe, 2021 champion Emma Raducanu, and Emma Navarro. In a surprise upset, No. 12 seed Casper Ruud bowed out to Raphael Collignon of Belgium. Collignon, ranked 107th and in his first major victory, defeated Ruud 6-4, 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 7-5, marking his inaugural five-set match.

Looking ahead to Thursday at Flushing Meadows, past champions Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek, and Coco Gauff will compete on Ashe, along with No. 14 seed Tommy Paul. Venus Williams is slated to appear in the women's doubles first round.

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