What does Novak Djokovic have in store for us?

Having won his last Grand Slam in 2023, but fallen to Alexei Popyrin in the third round in 2024, the US Open may be his last chance to shine. But in what state is he arriving?

"I haven't played any official matches since Wimbledon because I wanted to spend time with my family." It's true that we sometimes feel that Djoker has been a little too detached lately, even resigned. His last statement to Wim was certainly the admission of a guy who knows that he has become very dependent on circumstances. On the other hand, when the time comes to pounce, he will be there. All it takes is for Carlito to get a little too close to Sinner during his final in Cincinnati, catch his virus and lose (once again) prematurely here. If Sinner gets injured, and bam, the smell of blood will bring back the GOAT, believe me. I remain convinced that he has trained like crazy. Like crazy meaning: preparing as best he can to hold 7 matches of 3 hours in 30 degree heat. He "just" needs that, and that's precisely where he says he's lacking. The US Open is the Grand Slam that has seen the most surprises in the last ten years, and he knows it. In the meantime, he's staying quiet, speaking highly of Sinner/Alcaraz, and not doing anything crazy. Because when you think about it, the guy retired in the semifinals at the OA due to injury, and lost again in the semifinals at Roland Garros and Wim against Sinner. The guy still beats 99% of the tour, it's still crazy. His Grand Slam debut this season is going pretty well. A careless set against Muller, a battle nonetheless against Basavareddy, and a thrashing against McDonald's. This time, it's Learner Tien who awaits him. The man who defeated Daniil Medvedev at the OA is what you could call a tough guy. He rarely gives up. On the other hand, he won't hurt Novak on offense. I'd say this is the perfect start for Novak, because he's a player you have to beat. He won't give you the points. Is Novak capable of beating such a tough player in 3 sets? Obviously. On the other hand, there will surely be, as usual now, a set in which he is not perfect, gets broken, and tightens up his game to come back. Or not ;).