Novak Djokovic has kicked off his campaign to secure a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title with a dominant win under the lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The world No. 2 comfortably defeated Moldovan qualifier Radu Albot in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, 6-4, marking his 78th victory on the main showcourt at Flushing Meadows.
Already having achieved the prestigious career Golden Slam—winning all four Grand Slam titles plus an Olympic gold—Djokovic is now aiming to surpass Margaret Court’s record and claim sole ownership of the all-time Grand Slam title record.
The four-time US Open champion and heavy favorite to defend his New York title, Djokovic had little trouble dispatching Albot, a seasoned but unheralded opponent.
Despite never facing Albot before, Djokovic revealed that he had thoroughly studied the 34-year-old, who had previously defeated both of Djokovic’s younger brothers, Marko and Djordje, during their playing careers.
Djokovic avenged those family losses with a clinical performance, finishing the match with a powerful serve. His victory sets up an all-Serbian showdown against Laslo Djere in the second round.
