Djokovic’s Great Opportunity at the 2024 US Open
New York — Novak Djokovic enters the 2024 US Open as the second seed, yet many consider him the top contender for the title, especially with main rivals Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz facing issues before the tournament.
Djokovic and Alcaraz have been the most successful players in recent Grand Slam events, each securing three titles over the past two seasons. Djokovic is the defending champion at the US Open, while Alcaraz claimed his first major title on Arthur Ashe Stadium in 2022. Both are set to fiercely compete for the final Grand Slam of the year, alongside world number one Jannik Sinner.
Sinner has shown signs of resurgence after struggling with injuries and fitness earlier this year. However, the Italian arrives in New York under a cloud of controversy, as news broke on August 20 that he had tested positive for doping. The tennis community has been abuzz with criticism, and many are calling this the sport’s biggest scandal in years. “Sinner is one of the most honorable players we know, but the way the authorities have handled this situation is appalling,” said seven-time Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander on Eurosport on August 21. Despite being cleared of any wrongdoing, the pressure on Sinner remains intense.
Known for his calm demeanor and resilience in major tournaments over the past year, Sinner’s ability to handle external pressures is untested. His troubles have created a golden opportunity for Djokovic and Alcaraz, who may face each other in the semifinals. Alcaraz has been the most successful player in major events this season, winning consecutive Grand Slams at Roland Garros and Wimbledon. However, maintaining his physical condition and motivation could be challenging after a grueling summer.
Last year, Alcaraz’s performance declined sharply during the hard-court season, suffering early exits at the Cincinnati Masters, US Open, and ATP Finals. Sustaining a high level of play throughout the year has been a challenge for the 21-year-old, with doubts growing after his early loss at the Cincinnati Masters last week.
In contrast, Djokovic has not won an ATP Tour title this year, lagging behind Alcaraz in terms of achievements. However, the Serbian star boosted his morale by defeating Alcaraz to win the Olympic gold medal, completing his collection of tennis’s most prestigious titles.
Recently, Djokovic admitted that his ambitions have lessened after securing the Olympic gold. He feels he has nothing left to prove and is now driven by his passion for the sport and love of competition. This relaxed mindset could make him even more dangerous at the US Open, where his experience far surpasses that of his younger competitors.
Djokovic is in much better form now compared to Wimbledon, but the fast hard courts of the US Open present a significant challenge. He must be wary of strong servers and be prepared for grueling five-set matches in the intense heat and humidity of Flushing Meadows. Djokovic is often regarded as the king of hard courts, sharing a record 71 titles on this surface with Roger Federer. However, no one in history has matched his 14 hard-court Grand Slam titles. Djokovic also leads both Alcaraz and Sinner in head-to-head matches, with a 4-3 record against each.
While other top seeds like Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev, Taylor Fritz, Andrey Rublev, and Hubert Hurkacz could make deep runs, their chances of winning the title are slim if Djokovic, Alcaraz, and Sinner are all at their best.
Notable US Open Men’s Singles Records:
Most titles: Jimmy Connors, Pete Sampras, Roger Federer (5 each)
Oldest champion: Novak Djokovic (36 years old in 2023)
Youngest champion: Pete Sampras (19 years old in 1990)
Lowest-seeded champion: Andre Agassi (20th seed in 1994)
Last American champion: Andy Roddick (2003)
Most match wins: Jimmy Connors (98 wins)
