The 24-time Grand Slam champion started confidently, racing through the opening set in just 24 minutes. He struck two aces in the first game and committed only four unforced errors as Tien struggled to settle into the match.
However, momentum shifted dramatically in the second set. Djokovic’s movement became less fluid, his balance wavered, and he committed 20 unforced errors. Despite his struggles, he managed to stay composed during critical moments, sealing the set in a tense tie-break.
“It was a strange match,” Djokovic admitted afterward. “The first set was very short, but the second was extremely long. Holding my nerves was the key.”
Tien’s Missed Opportunities
World No. 50 Learner Tien, who already has four Top 10 wins this year, had a chance to push the match into a different direction. He failed to convert a set point at 5-4 in the second set, which could have made Djokovic’s path far more complicated given his visible discomfort.
Tien’s 25 unforced errors, including five double faults, ultimately cost him the opportunity to capitalize on Djokovic’s vulnerability. Despite showing flashes of potential, nerves played a role in his first appearance under the lights at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Concerns Over Djokovic’s Physical Condition
Djokovic’s physical state was one of the biggest talking points. He appeared sluggish in extended rallies, called for medical attention to re-tape a bloodied big toe, and even displayed signs of hip discomfort. At one point, he gestured to his team for guidance, underlining the uncertainty in his play.
Although he denied carrying a major injury, Djokovic admitted to feeling surprisingly fatigued. “I was shocked by how badly I felt physically in the second set. Thankfully, I have two days to recover,” he said.
Road Ahead at the US Open
Djokovic, who last lifted the US Open trophy in 2023, is aiming for his fifth crown in New York. With his second-round match scheduled against American qualifier Zachary Svajda, he will use the upcoming rest days to address fitness concerns and regain rhythm.
For Tien, the experience highlighted both his promise and the challenges of competing against the very best. Having upset Daniil Medvedev earlier this year at the Australian Open, he remains one of the most exciting young players to watch despite this defeat.
Key Takeaway
Djokovic’s victory was less about dominance and more about resilience. While his experience carried him through, questions remain about whether his body can endure the grind of a two-week major. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on how quickly he recovers, and whether he can rediscover the physical sharpness that has defined his career.
