Novak Djokovic matches Roger Federer’s impressive record © Elsa / Staff – Getty Images Sport
Novak Djokovic got off to a perfect start in New York, aiming for his fourth US Open title and 24th Major. Novak defeated Alexandre Muller 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 in an hour and 35 minutes, sailing over the top and earning another notable success.
Djokovic secured his 46th bagel (a set won 6-0) at the majors, tying Roger Federer and four sets behind leader Andre Agassi. Novak started his Roland Garros journey with a double bagel against Robby Ginepri in 2005, added more in 2008 and went on hiatus until 2011.
The Serb produced 24 bagels at Majors between 2011 and 2015, dominating the most notable scene and closing the gap on Federer and Nadal. Novak has bounced back since 2019, rising to 46 bagels and targeting Agassi’s record.
Djokovic missed the US Open last year and was hoping for a fresh start last week. Against Muller, he served at 53%, had just one break point and kept the pressure on the other side. Djokovic grabbed half of the return points and converted them into eight breaks from 13 opportunities.
Novak played aggressive tennis, delivering 32 winners and 23 unforced errors, overwhelming the weaker opponent. Muller was denied a break ball in the game’s opening game before Djokovic used the second for an early advantage following a backhand error from the rival.
Djokovic delivered his 46th
Bagel in the first round of the US Open
Novak won game two with a forehand crosscourt winner and stole serve from the rival for the second time in game three with a volley winner at the net. The Serb won the fourth game with a volley at the net and a few minutes later made it 5-0, getting closer to a bagel.
Djokovic served the opener in game six, landing an ace on the T-line, completing a perfect set in 23 minutes to level with Roger Federer. Novak provided a backhand winner early in the second set, earning his fourth straight break of serve.
The Serb won eight games before the Frenchman finally held 2-0 to put his name on the scoreboard. Djokovic lost serve for the first and only time in game six before claiming another break to take a 5-2 lead after the rival’s loose backhand.
Novak secured the set in game eight, holding at love to forge a 6-0, 6-2 lead within the hour and sailed to the top. Muller found the rhythm behind the opening strike in set number three, delivering three good holds without dropping a point and following Djokovic’s pace.
Novak stayed calm and earned a break after Alexandre’s forehand error at 3-3. The Frenchman stayed at 3-5 in the match, made a double fault, created another break and pushed the Serb over the top.
Novak Djokovic© TWUSA
2023-09-04 21:34:19
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