Novak Djokovic and defending women’s champion Coco Gauff kicked off their US Open bids with commanding victories on Monday.
Djokovic, aiming for a record 25th Grand Slam title, eased past Moldovan qualifier Radu Albot with a straight-sets win, 6-2, 6-2, 6-4. The four-time US Open champion, fresh from his Olympic gold in Paris, played his 40th career night match at the tournament, showcasing his dominance on the sport’s grandest stage. The 37-year-old Serb, who has lost both the Australian and French Open titles this year, faced little resistance from Albot, securing his 78th win at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
“The night sessions here are the best in the world, and since the roof was added, it’s got even louder,” Djokovic remarked after the match. He noted the vibrant energy in the stadium, enhanced by the new rule allowing crowd movement during play.
Djokovic took control early, breaking Albot’s serve for a 3-2 lead in the first set and again in the second. Although Albot briefly rallied, Djokovic swiftly claimed the next four games to secure a two-set lead. Another break in the third set sealed his victory just before midnight.
Meanwhile, Coco Gauff began her title defense with a dominant 6-2, 6-0 win over Varvara Gracheva. The 19-year-old American fired 10 aces and saved eight break points, advancing to the next round with ease.
