Novak Djokovic (World No. 2 – Serbia), the “living legend” of men’s tennis, has won a tournament in the United States for the first time in two years.
Novak Djokovic defeated 23rd-ranked Davydovic Fokina (Spain) in straight sets in the second round of the men’s singles event at the Cincinnati Open on the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Tour on Sunday in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. After Djokovic won the first set 6-4, Fokina withdrew due to a back injury and the match remained tied. Djokovic will play Gael Montpellier (No. 211-France) in the third round.
It is the first time in two years that Djokovic has won a singles match at a tournament in the United States since he was runner-up at the US Open in September 2021. Djokovic was effectively deported from Australia in January for not having a COVID-19 vaccine, and was barred from stepping foot on American soil for the same reason.
However, he was allowed to compete in the US this year after US health officials changed their policy in May to allow foreigners who had not been vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the country. Djokovic teamed up with Nikola Kacic (Serbia) in doubles play the previous day and lost 0-2 to Jamie Murray (Great Britain)-Michael Venus (New Zealand).
After his singles match, Djokovic said, “I didn’t want to win like this. I think the American fans were expecting a ‘battle’,” he said, adding, “Fokina revealed a back injury that came on suddenly the day before. I hope it will be better before the US Open.” 메이저사이트
Djokovic will attempt to win his fourth career title and 24th major championship at the US Open, which begins on April 28.