Novak Djokovic's match at the US Open started very late, but he knew that would happen, so it didn't bother him too much.
Much has been talked about this year with the late starts in tennis. Many players have expressed their negative views towards that, but Novak Djokovic didn't mind as much. The Serbian knew from the get-go that his match was the last one on the schedule and likely would be a late start.
It allowed him to prepare for it, and it showed in the way he played it. The Serbian cruised through the match, finishing it up rather quickly to book a spot in the second round. Speaking after the match, Djokovic mentioned the late starting time.
Well, I knew it was going to be a late night for me, late start of the match. Nevertheless, I mean, I was excited to go out on the court. I didn't care if I started after midnight because I was looking forward to this moment for few years, to be out on the biggest stadium in our sport, the loudest stadium in our sport, playing night session.
The match marked the return of Djokovic to the US Open. His last match before this one was the 2021 US Open final, where he attempted to complete the career Grand Slam. He didn't, as Medvedev beat him in the final, but he was still very excited to be back.
Tonight was a special night, they had a ceremony. It took longer than I would probably have wanted. As I said, it was a great joy to be stepping out on the court. I think the performance explains how I felt tonight, particularly in the first two sets. It was kind of lights-out tennis really, almost flawless, perfect first set.
I've probably had the answer for every shot he had in his book. Overall I'm very, very pleased with the way I feel, with the way I'm playing. Hopefully I can maintain that level. It's just the beginning of the tournament, but I already like the level of tennis.
Djokovic will face Bernabe Zapata Miralles next.
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