Djokovic advances at US Open as Sabalenka, Alcaraz step up title bids
NEW YORK: Novak Djokovic overcame an early scare to reach the third round of the US Open on Wednesday as defending women’s champion Aryna Sabalenka prepared to step up her title bid. Djokovic, who is chasing a record 25th Grand Slam singles title, recovered from going a set down against American qualifier Zachary Svajda to complete a 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 6-3, 6-1 win on the Arthur Ashe Stadium Court. The 38-year-old Serbian legend had not played since his semifinal exit at Wimbledon in July before arriving in New York, skipping most of the North American hardcourt swing. Djokovic said that while not at his best, he is hoping to play himself into form as the tournament progresses. “That’s what I’m hoping, the deeper I go into the tournament the better I feel about my game,” he said. “Obviously a bit different for me the last couple of years body-wise.