Defending champion Novak Djokovic advanced to the third round of the U.S. Open on Wednesday, securing a victory over fellow Serb Laslo Djere. Djere, who retired injured while trailing 6-4, 6-4, 2-0, was unable to continue the match due to an apparent injury. This victory comes after a challenging five-set encounter against Djere in the third round of last year’s tournament, hinting at a potential repeat of that epic battle.
Djere, despite initially taking a break in the second set, appeared to be hampered by an injury, allowing Djokovic to take control and secure the win. Djokovic, who had exhibited some rust in his opening round match, faced his own challenges in the sweltering conditions of Flushing Meadows. He wrapped himself in ice towels during breaks to combat the heat.
Djokovic’s path to victory was paved with consistent play, breaking Djere’s serve to love in the 10th game of the first set. The second set proved to be more difficult, with both players battling for control. Djere, having broken Djokovic’s serve early in the set, seemed to have the momentum. However, the match took a turn when Djere winced after serving in the eighth game, allowing Djokovic to capitalize on a break point opportunity.
Djere’s injury, which he sustained during the season while undergoing elbow surgery, continued to impact his performance, leading to a medical timeout after the ninth game. After a brief period of treatment, Djere was unable to continue and retired from the match just seven minutes into the third set.
Despite the circumstances of the victory, Djokovic acknowledged the difficult situation for Djere: “It’s not what we want. It’s not what the crowd wants. It should have been his second set, honestly.” Djokovic will now face Australian Alexei Popyrin in the third round.
Djokovic’s victory marks a significant step in his quest to defend his US Open title. His performance against a struggling Djere offers a glimpse of his determination to compete at the highest level despite the challenging conditions.
