Djokovic Advances to US Open Second Round Despite Sloppy Play

Novak Djokovic, after winning his first-round match against Radu Albot at the US Open, moves to the second round. Although victorious, Djokovic showed signs of rust with multiple double faults and unforced errors. He aims for a 25th major title and faces Laslo Djere next.

Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis star and defending champion, has advanced to the second round of the US Open by defeating Radu Albot. This marks his first appearance on hard courts since Indian Wells in March and his first tournament since his historic gold at the Paris Olympics. Djokovic won with a scoreline of 6-2, 6-2, 6-4, taking two hours and seven minutes, according to ATP.

Despite the win, Djokovic appeared to be subpar, committing 10 double faults, landing just 47 percent of his first serves, and making 40 unforced errors. This performance had him tie with Roger Federer for the most wins at the tournament, now trailing only Jimmy Connors.

Chasing his 25th major title to surpass Margaret Court, Djokovic will next face fellow Serbian Laslo Djere in the second round, who overcame Jan-Lennard Struff in five sets. Sitting on 99 career titles, the world number two aims to reach the milestone of 100 titles.

Djokovic, who first won the US Open in 2011, has now improved his season record to 30 wins and seven losses and has four US Open titles in total. He boasts a 62-1 career Grand Slam record against players outside the Top 100 and remains unbeaten at the US Open against players outside the Top 50, with a 41-0 record. In contrast, Albot's career record stands at 107 wins and 147 losses, with this being his third qualification for the US Open main draw.

During the match, Albot only briefly gained momentum in the second set, breaking back at 2-all and leading 40/0 on serve. However, Djokovic responded with a series of penetrating returns, winning five consecutive points to reclaim his lead. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)