Calendar slam hopes doused but Djokovic fired up for US Open

Novak Djokovic heads to the U.S. Open for the first time since 2021 with his world number one ranking gone and a new rival intent on denying him a 24th Grand Slam title, but only the brave would write off his chances at Flushing Meadows.

The 36-year-old's bid for a calendar year Grand Slam ended with a five-sets loss to Carlos Alcaraz in last month's Wimbledon final, with fans, pundits and former players saying the result heralded a changing of the guard in men's tennis.

Returning to the United States after his enforced absence in 2022 and the early part of this year due to his COVID-19 vaccination status, a refreshed Djokovic says his appetite for success has not diminished.

"I like the feeling that I have after 20-plus years of professional tennis. There's still a fire going," said Djokovic, who won the Australian Open and French Open titles to leapfrog Rafa Nadal into top spot in the list of men's major champions.

"There's still that drive and motivation to really come at the biggest events in sport and try to win, try to win titles and try to bring some good sensation to the crowds."

Djokovic, who said he had "zero regrets" missing tournaments in America due to his vaccination stance, ramped up his preparations for Flushing Meadows by winning the Cincinnati crown after a draining final against world number one Alcaraz.

"This rivalry just gets better and better," Djokovic said.

"Amazing player. Tons of respect. For such a young player to show so much poise in important moments is impressive.

"The feeling I have on the court reminds me a little bit when I was facing Nadal when we were at our prime of our careers.

"Each point is a hustle. Each point is a battle."

HARDCOURT DOMINANCE

If the chasing pack feel Djokovic's days of