Sweat, Strain, and Triumph: U.S. Open's Fiery Battle

Steamy conditions at the U.S. Open tested players' resolve, but defending champions Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff advanced to the third round. Aryna Sabalenka celebrated her win with a mini-version of herself. Despite the grueling heat, several top seeds, including Alexander Zverev and Madison Keys, managed to move forward.

Steamy conditions at the U.S. Open tested players' resolve on Wednesday, yet defending champions Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff advanced to the third round. Aryna Sabalenka marked her win by taking photographs with a mini version of herself in the victory celebrations.

Sweat-soaked, 24-times Grand Slam champion Djokovic appeared far from comfortable at Arthur Ashe Stadium and had to battle from 2-4 in the second set before fellow Serb Laslo Djere retired injured at 6-4 6-4 2-0. 'It's not what we want. It's not what the crowd wants, to see a walkover,' Djokovic commented.

Despite the harsh conditions, German fourth seed Alexander Zverev and American Madison Keys both advanced, emphasizing the challenges posed by the intense heat and humidity. Players resorted to ice towels and energy drinks to cope with the weather during the matchups.

(With inputs from agencies.)