Novak Djokovic sets a new men’s record at the US Open

For Novak Djokovic, the milestones are piling up: With his recent victory at the US Open, the tennis star set a new record for the most wins by a man in Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Djokovic, who had just completed a career Golden Slam by winning gold at the Paris Olympics, opened his title defense at Flushing Meadows on Monday with a solid 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 win over qualifier Radu Albot in the first round on the showpiece court.

For Djokovic, it was his 89th victory at the US Open, with 78 of his victories coming at Arthur Ashe Stadium, setting a new record for most wins by a man at Ashe Stadium.

In addition, he is tied with Roger Federer for second place for most US Open wins, securing Jimmy Connors’ record of 98 wins for at least another year.

“I didn’t know anything about it [record for most wins on Arthur Ashe] to be honest. It’s the biggest stadium. Definitely the loudest in the history of our sport,” said the 24-time Grand Slam winner. “The night sessions at Arthur Ashe are the best in the world. Since the roof was added, it’s become even louder. An electrifying atmosphere. Incredible energy.”

“There is obviously a lot going on on the course because of the new rules this year and the ability for spectators to move around freely. It’s just midnight. I love the night season, maybe not that late but it was still great fun.”

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Djokovic managed to break twice in the first set, three times in the second and once in the third. Albot also had some joy in the second set, however, as he managed to break serve once.

The win also helped him extend his streak of most Grand Slam first-round wins, which he now has on 71, well ahead of Roger Federer in second place with 65 and Chris Evert in third place with 56.

However, the second seed admits he needs to improve his game as he made 40 unforced errors, served 10 double faults and hit 47 percent of his first serves.

But considering it’s his first hard court match in months, a win is always welcome.

“I wanted to start the tournament right and I think I managed that,” said Djokovic, who will face fellow Serbian Laslo Djere in the second round. “Some ups and downs, which I think is normal, you have to get the rust off your shoulders when you come from a different surface and the Olympics.”

“I haven’t played on hard courts for six months, so I’m still trying to find my groove and pace on the court.”

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