Novak Djokovic’s pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title is officially underway at the US Open 2025. On Sunday night, under the lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium, the 38-year-old Serbian legend overcame a spirited challenge from American teenager Learner Tien to secure his place in the second round. The scoreline—6-1, 7-6(3), 6-2—suggests a routine win, but the match itself was anything but straightforward.

Djokovic’s performance was a masterclass in resilience, experience, and tactical brilliance. Despite physical discomfort and moments of vulnerability, he found a way to win, extending his astonishing streak of first-round Grand Slam victories to 75—an Open Era record that now stands alone.

A Blistering Start

Djokovic began the match with the kind of dominance that has defined his career. In just 24 minutes, he wrapped up the first set, dropping only one game and committing a mere four unforced errors. His movement was sharp, his serve precise, and his groundstrokes clean. Tien, making his night-session debut at Ashe, looked overwhelmed by the occasion and the opponent.

The Serb’s aura was palpable. Dressed in a sleek all-black ensemble and entering the stadium with quiet intensity, Djokovic set the tone early. His ability to control the tempo and dictate rallies left Tien scrambling, and the crowd watched in awe as the veteran dismantled the teenager’s game with surgical precision.

A Grueling Second Set

But the second set told a different story. Tien, buoyed by the home crowd and settling into the rhythm of the match, began to push back. He cut down on errors, extended rallies, and forced Djokovic into uncomfortable positions. The Serb, meanwhile, began to show signs of physical strain. He was seen stretching his legs between points, hunching over to catch his breath, and even received treatment for a blister on his right toe.

At one point, trailing 0-40 in the sixth game, Djokovic dug deep to hold serve—a pivotal moment that kept him in the set. Later, he saved a set point in the tenth game, showcasing the mental fortitude that has carried him through countless battles over the years.

The tiebreak was a test of nerve. Djokovic, despite his fatigue, managed to edge out Tien with a combination of strategic shot placement and sheer willpower. The second set lasted over an hour, a stark contrast to the breezy first, and by the end of it, Djokovic looked both relieved and reenergized.

Finding Rhythm Again

The third set saw Djokovic regain control. After an early break from Tien, the Serb responded with five consecutive games, reasserting his dominance and closing out the match in two hours and 25 minutes. His movement improved, his shot selection sharpened, and the rhythm that had eluded him in the second set returned.

Djokovic’s ability to adapt mid-match is one of his greatest strengths. Whether it’s adjusting to an opponent’s tactics or managing his own physical limitations, he finds ways to stay competitive. Against Tien, he demonstrated that even when not at his physical best, his mental game remains unmatched.

A Historic Milestone

With this win, Djokovic not only advanced to the second round but also etched his name deeper into tennis history. He became the first player in the Open Era to win 75 consecutive opening-round matches at Grand Slam events. Of those, 55 have come in straight sets—a testament to his consistency and dominance across surfaces and seasons.

This achievement places him ahead of legends like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Serena Williams in terms of first-round reliability. It’s a record that speaks volumes about his preparation, focus, and ability to handle pressure from the very start of tournaments.

Reflections and Realism

In his post-match interview, Djokovic was candid about his physical struggles. “I started great. Just over 20 minutes, first set, I felt really good. Then some long games to start the second set, and I started to feel really… I don’t know why. I really was surprised how bad I was feeling in the second set physically,” he admitted.

He also acknowledged the challenges of competing at 38, especially against younger opponents. “My opponent today is 19 years old—he’s literally half my age, which is incredible. At this stage of my career, it’s really about learning how to preserve energy for what matters,” he said.

Despite the difficulties, Djokovic remains motivated. “I still want to compete, and I hope you’re enjoying my tennis,” he told the crowd, drawing cheers and applause. His passion for the sport, even in the twilight of his career, continues to inspire fans around the world.

Looking Ahead

Djokovic’s next challenge comes in the form of American qualifier Zachary Svajda, who advanced with a straight-sets win in his own first-round match. While Svajda lacks the experience of Djokovic, he brings youthful energy and a fearless approach—qualities that could make for an intriguing second-round clash.

For Djokovic, the key will be recovery. Managing his body between matches, staying mentally sharp, and avoiding long, draining rallies will be crucial as he progresses through the draw. The US Open has historically been a mixed bag for him, with moments of brilliance and unexpected exits. But this year, with history on the line, he seems determined to make every match count.

The Bigger Picture

Djokovic’s journey at the US Open 2025 is about more than just one tournament. It’s about legacy. With 24 Grand Slam titles already under his belt, he stands on the brink of becoming the most decorated singles player in tennis history. The elusive 25th title would not only break Margaret Court’s long-standing record but also solidify Djokovic’s status as the greatest of all time in the eyes of many.

His performance against Tien, while not flawless, was a reminder of what makes Djokovic special. It’s not just the wins—it’s the fight, the adaptability, the refusal to give up even when the odds seem stacked against him.

Final Thoughts

Novak Djokovic’s advancement at the US Open 2025 is a story of grit, experience, and enduring excellence. At 38, he continues to defy age, expectations, and physical limitations, proving that greatness is not just about talent but about heart and perseverance.

As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will remain on Djokovic—not just to see if he can win, but to witness how he continues to evolve, inspire, and chase history. Whether this is his final Grand Slam run or another chapter in an already legendary career, one thing is certain: Novak Djokovic is still very much in the fight.