Tennis – Ailing Djokovic wins tournament in New York – Sport

New York (AP) – Two days before the start of the US Open, world number one Novak Djokovic confirmed his favorite position and achieved his 35th title at a Masters Series tournament.

The 33-year-old tennis professional from Serbia defeated the Canadian Milos Raonic in two hours at the hard court event, which was moved from Cincinnati to New York, despite intermittent neck problems with 1: 6, 6: 3, 6: 4.

With his 35th title in a tournament in the second-highest category after the Grand Slams, Djokovic drew level with record holder Rafael Nadal. Djokovic is still unbeaten this year. For him it was already the 23rd victory in a row. He has been considered a top favorite at the US Open not only since the cancellations of Nadal and Roger Federer. The Serb is aiming for his 18th Grand Slam triumph from Monday.

Djokovic had previously caused a stir with plans for a competing players’ association for the men’s organization ATP and triggered debates in men’s tennis. Nadal contradicted Djokovic on social networks and called on the players to unity and constructive cooperation instead of separation.

© dpa-infocom, dpa: 200829-99-358428 / 3

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