Novak Djokovic entered the U.S. Open with a clear goal: to become the all‑time leader in Grand Slam victories with a 25th major title. The Serbian champion, now 39, faces a draw that looks more favorable than in recent years, thanks to the absence of Jannik Sinner, who withdrew with a knee injury, and the return of Carlos Alcaraz after a four‑month wrist recovery.
Why the U.S. Open Matters for Djokovic
Since winning his first U.S. Open in 2023, Djokovic has remained a dominant force at the sport’s biggest events. Yet the past six Grand Slams have been largely dominated by Alcaraz and Sinner, who together have captured ten of the last eleven titles. Their success has repeatedly blocked Djokovic from surpassing Margaret Court’s record of 24 major wins.
Djokovic’s most recent chance to close the gap ended in a loss to Alcaraz in the Australian Open final earlier this year. Still, the Serbian star says the setback has not shaken his belief. In a new documentary released before the tournament, he invoked the Serbian concept of “inat,” describing it as a stubborn resolve that drives him to prove doubters wrong.
Alexander Zverev: The Newest Hurdle
While Alcaraz’s form remains uncertain after his wrist injury, Alexander Zverev has emerged as Djokovic’s most immediate threat. Zverev captured his first major title at the French Open and followed it with a Wimbledon final appearance, cementing his status as a top contender in New York.
Former world No. 1 Roger Federer weighed in on the competition, noting that any major draw that includes Djokovic always presents a chance for a surprise winner. “Whenever Novak enters any tournament, for that matter, or a major, he’ll have a shot,” Federer said in New York. “He’s done it at the highest level everywhere.”
American Hopefuls and Rising Stars
U.S. players are also looking to make a mark. Canadian Open champion Ben Shelton, who recently claimed the Montreal title, is seen as a serious contender despite an early exit in Cincinnati. Former U.S. Open champion Andy Roddick praised Shelton’s potential, saying the Canadian’s recent victories show he can compete for a Grand Slam.
Other American hopefuls include Frances Tiafoe, a Cincinnati runner‑up, and Taylor Fritz, who last year reached the final and hopes to end a 23‑year drought for a home‑grown men’s champion. Young talents such as France’s Arthur Fils and Spain’s Rafael Jodar will also be looking to cause upsets, while last year’s semi‑finalist Felix Auger‑Aliassime aims to improve on his strong showing.
What Lies Ahead
Djokovic’s path to a historic 25th major will require navigating a field that includes seasoned veterans and hungry newcomers. With Sinner out and Alcaraz still finding his rhythm, the balance may tilt in Djokovic’s favor, but Zverev’s recent breakthrough suggests the competition will be fierce.
Fans in New York and around the world will be watching closely as the Serbian star seeks to add another chapter to his legendary career, while the next generation of players strives to claim their place on tennis’s biggest stage.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
