Novak Djokovic made a statement return to Flushing Meadows on Sunday night, defeating American rising star Learner Tien in straight sets, 6-1, 7-6(3), 6-2, to kick off his campaign at the season’s final Grand Slam.
With this victory, the Serbian legend not only advanced to the second round but also wrote history yet again—becoming the first man to record 80 career wins in Arthur Ashe Stadium, the world’s largest tennis arena.
Historic Milestone for Djokovic
Arthur Ashe Stadium opened in 1997, and since then, only a handful of greats have dominated its courts. Djokovic’s triumph against Tien elevated him above legends like Roger Federer (77 wins) and Rafael Nadal (64 wins). He now joins Serena Williams, who has 103 wins, as the only players to reach this milestone.
Most Career Wins at Arthur Ashe Stadium (Men):
- 80 – Novak Djokovic (2007–2016, 2018–2021, 2023–2025)
- 77 – Roger Federer
- 64 – Rafael Nadal
- 41 – Andre Agassi
- 40 – Andy Roddick
Eighty was a magic number for Djokovic on the night—this was also his 80th Grand Slam appearance, making him the third man in history to reach that figure, after Roger Federer and Feliciano López (81 each).
The Match Breakdown
Djokovic wasted no time in the first set, sealing it in just over 20 minutes with a blistering 6-1 performance. The second set, however, was a battle. Tien, who has already beaten four Top 10 players this season, earned a set point at 5-4. Djokovic saved it, forced a tie-break, and clinched the set 7-6(3).
In the third, Tien briefly stunned the Serb by breaking early, but Djokovic stormed back, winning five straight games to take control. Though he faltered while serving for the match, he immediately broke back to finish the contest in style.
After the match, Djokovic admitted he struggled physically in the second set:
“I started great. First set was over in just 20 minutes, I felt really good. But in the second, I was surprised by how bad I felt physically. Thankfully, I reset and managed to close it out. Two days off now, which is good, but I’ll need to manage it carefully.”
What’s Next for Djokovic?
In Round 2, Djokovic will face another American, Zachary Svajda, who defeated Hungary’s Zsombor Piros 6-4, 6-2, 7-5 in an all-qualifier clash. It will be their first-ever meeting.
With history already on his side, Djokovic now sets his sights on a deeper run in New York as he chases his 25th Grand Slam title.
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