Home
Novak Djokovic began his US Open campaign with a straight-sets victory over American teenager Learner Tien on Sunday night, but the Serbian icon’s performance has sparked concerns about his fitness and rhythm. Despite the 6-1, 7-6(3), 6-2 win, the 24-time Grand Slam champion struggled physically and technically in what was his first competitive outing since his Wimbledon semi-final defeat to Jannik Sinner.
Novak Djokovic shows signs of rust despite victory
Djokovic’s return to Arthur Ashe Stadium was far from flawless. The 37-year-old looked uneasy with his footwork and balance, committing 20 unforced errors in the second set alone. He even took a clumsy fall while stretching wide for a Learner Tien serve, raising questions about his physical sharpness after a six-week layoff.
“It was a strange kind of match. The first set was 20 minutes and then the second one was one hour and 20, so quite the opposite sets we played,” Djokovic reflected after the match. “It was key for me to hold my nerves in the second set and clinch it in a tie-break. After that I started feeling better. I can always do better but it’s a great way to start this year’s campaign.”
The Serbian also required medical attention after the second set, with ATP physio Clay Sniteman re-applying tape to a bloodied big toe on his right foot. Earlier, Novak Djokovic had also shown discomfort in his hip, adding to speculation about whether he is at full fitness for the grueling fortnight ahead.
Learner Tien misses his big moment
World No. 50 Learner Tien had entered the clash riding high on confidence after claiming four Top 10 wins in 2025, including a stunning five-set upset over Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open. However, nerves on the big stage under the lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium hampered his chances.
Despite flashes of brilliance, Tien committed 25 unforced errors in the opening two sets, including five double faults, which ultimately proved costly. The 19-year-old did hold a set point in the second set but failed to convert, a moment that could have drastically shifted momentum given Novak Djokovic’s visible struggles.
What lies ahead for Djokovic
Although Djokovic powered through to seal his place in the second round, questions remain over his physical readiness to mount a serious title challenge in New York. Chasing what would be his 25th Grand Slam crown and a fifth US Open title, he now has two days to regroup before facing American qualifier Zachary Svajda on Wednesday.
As one of the favorites for the title, Novak Djokovic will need to sharpen his movement and reduce the errors if he wants to navigate a demanding draw. For now, his victory serves as both a relief and a warning sign—reminding fans that while he is still capable of grinding out results, his margin for error is shrinking.
ADVERTISEMENT
