This unique feat is due to the inevitable Novak Djokovic (ATP 2). The Serb, who was leading two sets to zero, took advantage of the retirement of his opponent, his compatriot Laslo Djere (ATP 109), to add yet another record to his calling card.
The current world number two is taking advantage of this to overtake the Swiss Roger Federer and his 89 victories on the New York courts. To equal the leader Jimmy Connors, however, he will have to wait until 2025, the American peaking at 98 victories.
No matter, the Belgrade native already has his eyes fixed on his third round match. A clash against Alexei Popyrin (ATP 28). The Australian won the Masters 1000 in Montreal two weeks ago, giving himself a jump of almost 40 places in the world rankings. He is coming in with confidence.
“He is a great player, who has progressed a lot and who has just won his first Masters 1000.Novak Djokovic commented at a press conference. He’s always had a good serve and a great forehand, but his backhand and his movement have improved a lot. He’s defending better, he’s more consistent and he’s not making as many mistakes as he used to. There’s no reason why he can’t believe in a good performance. But I also know what to expect. We’ve played each other a few times before, so I’m going to do my homework, analyse those matches and see what I need to do.”
The two men have met three times on the circuit. If the first took place in 2019, the other two took place no later than this year. And in Grand Slams already, at the Australian Open and Wimbledon. Each time, Novak Djokovic came out on top in four sets.
“Come and tell me to my face”: Novak Djokovic lashes out at disrespectful spectator during Australian Open match (VIDEO)
