Following Novak Djokovic’s story began with a test of patience on Sunday at the US Open. The 38-year-old Serb, a large 24-time champion aimed at a 25th record this two weeks, opened his campaign with a 6-1, 7-6 (3), 6-2 win over the 19-year-old American card tien in Arthur Stadium.
On paper, the line of the results of the straight set looks routine. In reality, it was more complicated. Gjokovic, facing a giant flowering half of his age, ran through the opening set, but quickly found himself locked in a exhausting second. Striving significantly, the man who has long been proud of himself in the supreme fitness admitted that he was surprised by how weak he felt.
After that, he admitted that the fatigue he felt is weighing in his mind.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wwgCtrdmjc
“Well, I started great,” Gjokovic said. “Then a few long games in the second set, I started to feel really … I was really surprised how bad I was feeling in the second physically. The good thing is that I have two days off. It is a bit disturbing. I have no damage or nothing.
Still, when the pressure rose, the King of Grand Slam replied. Gjokovic stayed his nerves in Tiebreak, reached the third control and closed the night in two hours and 17 minutes of play.
“It was important for me to keep my nerves in the second set and catch it in a connecting stroke,” he explained. “After that I started feeling better. I can always do better, but it’s a great way to start this year’s campaign.”
Despite the physical fighting, Gjokovic left Arthur Ashe the stadium with a good spirit. His experience, solution, and ability to navigate disasters were on the full screen, even if his body betrayed him from time to time. Attempting for 25 continues, and the champion-tested by cattle-a lot of war.
