Background on Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, kicked off the US Open 2025 with a victory, defeating American Learner Tien in straight sets (6-1, 7-6, 6-2) in the first round. This win marks Djokovic’s 19th consecutive appearance at the US Open with at least one victory since his debut in 2005, excluding the years 2017 and 2022 when he did not participate.
The Match Details
After two hours and 25 minutes at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, Djokovic overcame Tien in their first-ever ATP Tour match against each other. The sets lasted 24, 82, and 39 minutes respectively.
The stark contrast between the two players was evident, with Djokovic being more than twice Tien’s age (38 vs. 19). Djokovic had already played four Grand Slams before Tien was even born.
Djokovic boasts over 1,100 professional victories and more than a hundred titles, while Tien has only surpassed 20 wins in the ATP Tour and has yet to lift a championship.
Djokovic holds the record in the Open Era, including both men’s and women’s divisions, with 75 consecutive victories in Grand Slam opening matches. His last first-round exit was at the Australian Open 2006 against Paul Goldstein.
Of these 75 wins, 73% were in straight sets, highlighting his dominance over two decades: from 2005 to 2025.
Djokovic’s Recent Activity
This match was Djokovic’s first in over a month, following his Wimbledon semifinal loss to Jannik Sinner in straight sets. He had previously skipped the Masters in Toronto and Cincinnati.
Djokovic has amassed 393 singles victories across all Grand Slams, with 91 specifically in the US Open, where he has won four titles (2011, 2015, 2018, and 2023).
Post-Match Statements and Next Opponent
Addressing the crowd of over 20,000 at the US Open, Djokovic mentioned, “I still have talent and motivation. I wish I were younger, but I hope you enjoy my tennis.”
Post-second set, Djokovic received medical attention for a large blister on his left foot, which was covered to enable him to continue playing against the inexperienced Tien, who departed with a handshake and smile.
Djokovic’s next opponent will be fellow American Zachary Svajda, who defeated Hungarian Zsombor Piros in the first round. Svajda, 22, is currently ranked 145th in the world.
This will be another novel encounter for Djokovic, who currently holds a 36-0 record in the US Open’s first two rounds. A win on Wednesday would elevate this to 37-0.
Seeding and Other Top-10 Results
Djokovic is seeded seventh in the 2025 US Open edition. Among other top-10 seeded results from Sunday, Taylor Fritz (4) defeated Emilio Nava and Ben Shelton (6) ousted Ignacio Buse in straight sets.
Additional top-seeded players, including Carlos Alcaraz (2) versus Reilly Opelka and Jack Draper (5) against Federico Gómez, will take the court on Monday.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Novak Djokovic? Djokovic is a 24-time Grand Slam champion and one of the most successful tennis players in history.
- Why is his US Open appearance significant? Djokovic’s 19th consecutive appearance with at least one victory showcases his longevity and consistency in Grand Slam tournaments.
- Who did Djokovic defeat in the first round? He defeated American Learner Tien in straight sets (6-1, 7-6, 6-2).
- What are Djokovic’s upcoming match details? His next opponent is Zachary Svajda, and a win would maintain his unbeaten record in the US Open’s first two rounds.
