Defending champion Novak Djokovic of Serbia smoothly advanced through the first round of the US Open, defeating Moldovan Radu Albot with a score of 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 on Monday in New York.
A four-time winner of the tournament, Djokovic, who secured the gold medal in singles at the Paris Olympics just a month ago, is striving for his 25th Grand Slam title at Flushing Meadows. Achieving this milestone would give him sole possession of the all-time record for Grand Slam victories, surpassing Australia’s Margaret Court, who has 24.
After a dominant performance in the first two sets, the 37-year-old Serb encountered slightly more resistance in the third set; however, he maintained his composure and completed the match in 2 hours and 7 minutes.
Djokovic will face fellow countryman Laslo Djere in the second round on Wednesday.
