After tackling two U.S. Open debutants, Novak Djokovic faced an old foe on Saturday, reaching the fourth round with a 6-7(4) 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Kei Nishikori to stay on course for a record 21st major title that would complete the calendar Grand Slam. 
 
Following first-ever meetings with Denmark`s Holger Rune and Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor, Djokovic faced a seasoned campaigner in Nishikori, who was runner-up at the 2014 U.S. Open having beaten the Serb to move into that year`s final. 
 
Since then it has been one-way traffic in the rivalry with Djokovic sweeping 17 straight contests against the Japanese player, improving his head-to-head record to 18-2. 
 
But after Nishikori`s 6-2 6-0 quarter-final thumping at the hands of the world No. 1 at the Tokyo Olympics, the 31-year-old made Djokovic sweat for his victory. 
 
"So far the toughest match of the tournament for me," said Djokovic. "The opening two rounds obviously felt well, played good. 
 
"But the pace of the ball and the speed of Nishikori`s tennis today was just higher than the opening two rounds` opponents that I had." 
 
Usually the headliner under the Arthur Ashe Stadium lights, Djokovic made a matinee appearance on Saturday and appeared unsettled by the conditions as he went to work under a blazing sun. 
 
For the first time this week New York fans, who have not always embraced Djokovic, got behind the history-hunting Serb, showering him with cheers that had largely gone to his opponents. 
 
While Djokovic did not need the fans to get through the opening week, he knows the path gets harder and at some point will most likely need the energy the crowd can bring to get him through a rough patch. 
 
"Arthur Ashe is the place where you bring the energy," said Djokovic. "That`s where you feel this kind of electric atmosphere, particularly in the matches like this where it`s decided in a few points. 
 
"Yeah, the crowd was involved. It was loud. It was nice. I thrived on that." 
 
A tight opening set was snatched by Nishikori in a tiebreak before Djokovic began to settle into the contest, breaking the Japanese player twice in the second on his way to leveling the match at a set apiece. 
 
In another workmanlike effort, the top seed took the decisive break in the third to go ahead 5-3, then held serve for a 2-1 lead. 
 
Now in control, Djokovic would leave Nishikori no openings to hope for a comeback, storming through the last four games of the fourth set to close out the contest in style. 
 
Djokovic now awaits the winner of the match between U.S. wildcard Jenson Brooksby and Russian Aslan Karatsev. 
&nbsp;

After tackling two U.S. Open debutants, Novak Djokovic faced an old foe on Saturday, reaching the fourth round with a 6-7(4) 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Kei Nishikori to stay on course for a record 21st major title that would complete the calendar Grand Slam.

After tackling two U.S. Open debutants, Novak Djokovic faced an old foe on Saturday, reaching the fourth round with a 6-7(4) 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Kei Nishikori to stay on course for a record 21st major title that would complete the calendar Grand Slam. Following first-ever meetings with Denmark`s Holger Rune and Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor, Djokovic faced a seasoned campaigner in Nishikori, who was runner-up at the 2014 U.S. Open having beaten the Serb to move into that year`s final. Since then it has been one-way traffic in the rivalry with Djokovic sweeping 17 straight contests against the Japanese player, improving his head-to-head record to 18-2. But after Nishikori`s 6-2 6-0 quarter-final thumping at the hands of the world No. 1 at the Tokyo Olympics, the 31-year-old made Djokovic sweat for his victory. "So far the toughest match of the tournament for me," said Djokovic. "The opening two rounds obviously felt well, played good. "But the pace of the ball and the speed of Nishikori`s tennis today was just higher than the opening two rounds` opponents that I had." Usually the headliner under the Arthur Ashe Stadium lights, Djokovic made a matinee appearance on Saturday and appeared unsettled by the conditions as he went to work under a blazing sun. For the first time this week New York fans, who have not always embraced Djokovic, got behind the history-hunting Serb, showering him with cheers that had largely gone to his opponents. While Djokovic did not need the fans to get through the opening week, he knows the path gets harder and at some point will most likely need the energy the crowd can bring to get him through a rough patch. "Arthur Ashe is the place where you bring the energy," said Djokovic. "That`s where you feel this kind of electric atmosphere, particularly in the matches like this where it`s decided in a few points. "Yeah, the crowd was involved. It was loud. It was nice. I thrived on that." A tight opening set was snatched by Nishikori in a tiebreak before Djokovic began to settle into the contest, breaking the Japanese player twice in the second on his way to leveling the match at a set apiece. In another workmanlike effort, the top seed took the decisive break in the third to go ahead 5-3, then held serve for a 2-1 lead. Now in control, Djokovic would leave Nishikori no openings to hope for a comeback, storming through the last four games of the fourth set to close out the contest in style. Djokovic now awaits the winner of the match between U.S. wildcard Jenson Brooksby and Russian Aslan Karatsev.

US Open: Novak Djokovic dispatches old rival Nishikori to reach fourth round

Novak Djokovic says being mentioned in the same breath with Rod Laver and battling Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have energized his quest to complete a calendar-year Grand Slam.

World number one Djokovic advanced to the third round of the US Open on Thursday, putting him five match wins shy of completing the first men's singles calendar-year Grand Slam since Australian legend Laver in 1969.

"Being only in the conversation with Rod Laver... is really an honor. I try to draw strength and energy from that," Djokovic said.

"With history on the line, the excitement grows, pressure grows, but experience and understanding of what I have to do on a daily basis to reach the goal allows me to stay in the tournament, so to say."

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Djokovic has already owned all four Slam titles at once after winning the 2016 French Open and said that was the moment he felt a calendar Slam was possible.

"That's where I felt this is achievable, it's reachable, I could do it in one year," he said, noting how Federer and Nadal had come close and adding, "Their dominance on the tour made me the player I am today."

Federer and Nadal, both absent due to injuries, are level with Djokovic on a men's career record 20 Slam titles, another piece of history Djokovic can grab by winning his fourth US Open title.

Djokovic spent years chasing both legends on the all-time list and the issue of who is best among the "Big Three" is one the 34-year-old Serbian star says has been good for tennis.

"It's difficult to say who is better. Three of us, we're all so different," Djokovic said. "We have different styles. We have different trajectories or journeys to where we are at this moment. We all had tremendous success.

"We do complement each other. I think the rivalry between the Big Three, it's phenomenal for our sport. So the more traction, the more conversation there is around the three of us, the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time) discussion, et cetera, the better in general for our sport.

"I hope people still keep on talking about it."

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Djokovic dispatched Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 in 99 minutes Thursday at Arthur Ashe Stadium, booking a third-round date against Japan's Kei Nishikori, whom he has beaten in their past 16 meetings.

"All in all very good," Djokovic said. "I'm very pleased with the level of my tennis. All is going in the right direction.

"I served very well. I found the rhythm on the serve. It was important I came up with the goods."

Djokovic said it was nice that he has become one of the major faces on US Open promotional posters around the city, but notes he's the main Broadway attraction with Nadal, Federer and Serena and Venus Williams sidelined.

"That's not going to affect my game," Djokovic said. "But, of course, it's a privilege and it's flattering to see."

Novak Djokovic says being mentioned in the same breath with Rod Laver and battling Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have energized his quest to complete a calendar-year Grand Slam.

Novak Djokovic says being mentioned in the same breath with Rod Laver and battling Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have energized his quest to complete a calendar-year Grand Slam. World number one Djokovic advanced to the third round of the US Open on Thursday, putting him five match wins shy of completing the first men's singles calendar-year Grand Slam since Australian legend Laver in 1969. "Being only in the conversation with Rod Laver... is really an honor. I try to draw strength and energy from that," Djokovic said. "With history on the line, the excitement grows, pressure grows, but experience and understanding of what I have to do on a daily basis to reach the goal allows me to stay in the tournament, so to say." ALSO READ | US Open: Sharper, more focused Novak Djokovic advances to third round Djokovic has already owned all four Slam titles at once after winning the 2016 French Open and said that was the moment he felt a calendar Slam was possible. "That's where I felt this is achievable, it's reachable, I could do it in one year," he said, noting how Federer and Nadal had come close and adding, "Their dominance on the tour made me the player I am today." Federer and Nadal, both absent due to injuries, are level with Djokovic on a men's career record 20 Slam titles, another piece of history Djokovic can grab by winning his fourth US Open title. Djokovic spent years chasing both legends on the all-time list and the issue of who is best among the "Big Three" is one the 34-year-old Serbian star says has been good for tennis. "It's difficult to say who is better. Three of us, we're all so different," Djokovic said. "We have different styles. We have different trajectories or journeys to where we are at this moment. We all had tremendous success. "We do complement each other. I think the rivalry between the Big Three, it's phenomenal for our sport. So the more traction, the more conversation there is around the three of us, the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time) discussion, et cetera, the better in general for our sport. "I hope people still keep on talking about it." ALSO READ | Video: Raheem Sterling pelted with beer cups as England players targeted with racial abuses by Hungary supporters Djokovic dispatched Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 in 99 minutes Thursday at Arthur Ashe Stadium, booking a third-round date against Japan's Kei Nishikori, whom he has beaten in their past 16 meetings. "All in all very good," Djokovic said. "I'm very pleased with the level of my tennis. All is going in the right direction. "I served very well. I found the rhythm on the serve. It was important I came up with the goods." Djokovic said it was nice that he has become one of the major faces on US Open promotional posters around the city, but notes he's the main Broadway attraction with Nadal, Federer and Serena and Venus Williams sidelined. "That's not going to affect my game," Djokovic said. "But, of course, it's a privilege and it's flattering to see."

Novak Djokovic energized by Rod Laver link, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal feats

Novak Djokovic`s bid for a 21st major title that would complete a calendar-year Grand Slam picked up pace on Thursday as the world number one cruised into the U.S. Open third round with a 6-2 6-3 6-2 thrashing of Tallon Griekspoor. 
 
Having shaken off the rust in a spotty four-set opening match against 18-year-old Holger Rune on Tuesday, Djokovic was sharper and much more focused against the 25-year-old Dutchman. 
 
Just like his first round contest Djokovic dominated early on but this time the 34-year-old Serb never let his foot off the gas as he registered his 77th win at the U.S. Open. 
 
Only three men have won more matches at the U.S. Open -- Jimmy Connors (98), Roger Federer (89) and Andre Agassi (79). Djokovic, playing his first event since the Tokyo Olympics, found the intensity that had been lacking against Rune, speeding through the opening set in 30 minutes. 
 
"I came out on court with the right intensity, the right focus," said Djokovic. "Better definitely than the first-round match. "It was important I came up with the goods. "I`m very pleased with the level of my tennis. All is going in the right direction." 
 
The highlight of the evening for Griekspoor came in the second set when he broke Djokovic but the world number one would break right back and then hold serve to take the set and a 2-0 lead. 
 
Griekspoor had rallied from 2-1 down in his opening match to collect his first ever Grand Slam win but there was no coming back against the top seed. Djokovic then broke Griekspoor twice in the third set before sealing the contest with his 13th ace. 
 
Afterwards Djokovic basked in the applause of the crowd, something he had not done for his opening round victory after the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd had roared on his Danish opponent throughout the match. 
 
After beating two young opponents playing in their first U.S. Open main draw, Djokovic next faces Japan`s Kei Nishikori, the 2014 U.S. Open runner-up. 
 
"I have very good score against him," said Djokovic, who swept aside Nishikori 6-2 6-0 in the quarter-finals of the Tokyo Olympics. "He`s one of the quickest and most-talented players that I`ve seen in my career. 
 
"He likes to hit the ball early, protect the line, but I know his game well." 
&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic`s bid for a 21st major title that would complete a calendar-year Grand Slam picked up pace on Thursday as the world number one cruised into the U.

Novak Djokovic`s bid for a 21st major title that would complete a calendar-year Grand Slam picked up pace on Thursday as the world number one cruised into the U.S. Open third round with a 6-2 6-3 6-2 thrashing of Tallon Griekspoor. Having shaken off the rust in a spotty four-set opening match against 18-year-old Holger Rune on Tuesday, Djokovic was sharper and much more focused against the 25-year-old Dutchman. Just like his first round contest Djokovic dominated early on but this time the 34-year-old Serb never let his foot off the gas as he registered his 77th win at the U.S. Open. Only three men have won more matches at the U.S. Open -- Jimmy Connors (98), Roger Federer (89) and Andre Agassi (79). Djokovic, playing his first event since the Tokyo Olympics, found the intensity that had been lacking against Rune, speeding through the opening set in 30 minutes. "I came out on court with the right intensity, the right focus," said Djokovic. "Better definitely than the first-round match. "It was important I came up with the goods. "I`m very pleased with the level of my tennis. All is going in the right direction." The highlight of the evening for Griekspoor came in the second set when he broke Djokovic but the world number one would break right back and then hold serve to take the set and a 2-0 lead. Griekspoor had rallied from 2-1 down in his opening match to collect his first ever Grand Slam win but there was no coming back against the top seed. Djokovic then broke Griekspoor twice in the third set before sealing the contest with his 13th ace. Afterwards Djokovic basked in the applause of the crowd, something he had not done for his opening round victory after the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd had roared on his Danish opponent throughout the match. After beating two young opponents playing in their first U.S. Open main draw, Djokovic next faces Japan`s Kei Nishikori, the 2014 U.S. Open runner-up. "I have very good score against him," said Djokovic, who swept aside Nishikori 6-2 6-0 in the quarter-finals of the Tokyo Olympics. "He`s one of the quickest and most-talented players that I`ve seen in my career. "He likes to hit the ball early, protect the line, but I know his game well."

US Open: Sharper, more focused Novak Djokovic advances to third round

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic on Friday said that he isn't a "spoiled brat" after he complained after a fan heckling during his second-round match against Tallon Griekspoor of the US Open.&nbsp;

The World No. 1 eased past Griekspoor (6-2 6-3 6-2) to progress into the third round. However, the Dutch was not the biggest challenge for Djokovic in the second round, it was actually a fan who kept yelling and shouting during crucial moments of the match.&nbsp;

Djokovic eventually spoke to the umpire about the fan and his disturbance.&nbsp;

He said: “When tennis players talk about that, someone who is watching team sports would say, ‘What a spoiled brat’.

“But it’s a different sport. Look, there’s a lot of noise happening on the stadium, particularly in the night sessions. I don’t mind that.

“Even sometimes during the point it happens that people out of excitement, they just scream or they release like a sound or whatever, sigh, whatever you call it. And that’s fine.

“But if someone intentionally does it over and over again, then I have tolerance up to a certain point, then it’s not correct, then it’s not fine. It’s not fair. I feel like it’s not good for us players.”

“I mean, particularly that guy for some reason was calling, raising the sound and kind of screaming just before I would hit my smash, which was a big point. Before that he would do a few times. After that again.

“That wasn’t nice. That’s all. I don’t mind the noise. Don’t get me wrong. I think it’s important for the entertainment, for the crowds, the music.

“I get it. But if someone does it over and over again, particularly when you are at his side, he knows why he’s doing it. The guy that I pointed out, he knew exactly what he was doing, and that’s all.”

Novak Djokovic will now face Kei Nishikori in the next round of the US Open. He will be looking to beat Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal to become the 21-time Grand Slam champion.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic on Friday said that he isn't a "spoiled brat" after he complained after a fan heckling during his second-round match against Tallon Griekspoor of the US Open.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic on Friday said that he isn't a "spoiled brat" after he complained after a fan heckling during his second-round match against Tallon Griekspoor of the US Open. The World No. 1 eased past Griekspoor (6-2 6-3 6-2) to progress into the third round. However, the Dutch was not the biggest challenge for Djokovic in the second round, it was actually a fan who kept yelling and shouting during crucial moments of the match. Djokovic eventually spoke to the umpire about the fan and his disturbance. He said: “When tennis players talk about that, someone who is watching team sports would say, ‘What a spoiled brat’. “But it’s a different sport. Look, there’s a lot of noise happening on the stadium, particularly in the night sessions. I don’t mind that. “Even sometimes during the point it happens that people out of excitement, they just scream or they release like a sound or whatever, sigh, whatever you call it. And that’s fine. “But if someone intentionally does it over and over again, then I have tolerance up to a certain point, then it’s not correct, then it’s not fine. It’s not fair. I feel like it’s not good for us players.” “I mean, particularly that guy for some reason was calling, raising the sound and kind of screaming just before I would hit my smash, which was a big point. Before that he would do a few times. After that again. “That wasn’t nice. That’s all. I don’t mind the noise. Don’t get me wrong. I think it’s important for the entertainment, for the crowds, the music. “I get it. But if someone does it over and over again, particularly when you are at his side, he knows why he’s doing it. The guy that I pointed out, he knew exactly what he was doing, and that’s all.” Novak Djokovic will now face Kei Nishikori in the next round of the US Open. He will be looking to beat Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal to become the 21-time Grand Slam champion.

'I have tolerance up to a certain point': Novak Djokovic after being heckled during US Open

Novak Djokovic took a first unsteady step toward completing the calendar-year Grand Slam on Tuesday as the Serb laboured into the second round of the U.S. Open with a 6-1 6-7(5) 6-2 6-1 win over dashing Danish teenager Holger Rune. 
 
On paper, the contest was a total mismatch -- an 18-year-old qualifier making his Grand Slam debut against a player chasing a 21st major title. While the outcome was exactly what was expected, the effort needed by Djokovic to see off the fearless Dane, who battled to the end despite suffering cramp, was not. 
 
The match got underway amid a somewhat flat atmosphere inside Arthur Ashe Stadium but the crowd were chanting the little-known Dane`s name after he stunned Djokovic to win the second set. 
 
Aside from that, it was a controlled effort from the 34-year-old Djokovic, far different from the Serb`s last match on Arthur Ashe Stadium court which ended with him being disqualified after swatting a ball in frustration that struck a line judge. 
 
The stone-faced world number one was all business from the start, breaking his opponent at the first opportunity and rolling through the set in just 26 minutes. But playing his first event since a disappointing Tokyo Olympics there were signs of rust and a lack of intensity, particularly in a sloppy second set when Rune broke him twice and forced the set to tie-break that he easily won. 
 
But there was never any panic from Djokovic, who turned up the pressure in the third with an early break to regain control as Rune began to suffer cramp. As Rune grimaced with every step, Djokovic showed his ruthless side, moving the youngster from line-to-line and taking the set 6-2. 
 
Rune was determined to battle his way to the end but a Djokovic victory was now certain and the Serb wrapped up the match by taking the fourth set 6-1. 
&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic took a first unsteady step toward completing the calendar-year Grand Slam on Tuesday as the Serb laboured into the second round of the U.S. Open with a 6-1 6-7(5) 6-2 6-1 win over dashing Danish teenager Holger Rune.

Novak Djokovic took a first unsteady step toward completing the calendar-year Grand Slam on Tuesday as the Serb laboured into the second round of the U.S. Open with a 6-1 6-7(5) 6-2 6-1 win over dashing Danish teenager Holger Rune. On paper, the contest was a total mismatch -- an 18-year-old qualifier making his Grand Slam debut against a player chasing a 21st major title. While the outcome was exactly what was expected, the effort needed by Djokovic to see off the fearless Dane, who battled to the end despite suffering cramp, was not. The match got underway amid a somewhat flat atmosphere inside Arthur Ashe Stadium but the crowd were chanting the little-known Dane`s name after he stunned Djokovic to win the second set. Aside from that, it was a controlled effort from the 34-year-old Djokovic, far different from the Serb`s last match on Arthur Ashe Stadium court which ended with him being disqualified after swatting a ball in frustration that struck a line judge. The stone-faced world number one was all business from the start, breaking his opponent at the first opportunity and rolling through the set in just 26 minutes. But playing his first event since a disappointing Tokyo Olympics there were signs of rust and a lack of intensity, particularly in a sloppy second set when Rune broke him twice and forced the set to tie-break that he easily won. But there was never any panic from Djokovic, who turned up the pressure in the third with an early break to regain control as Rune began to suffer cramp. As Rune grimaced with every step, Djokovic showed his ruthless side, moving the youngster from line-to-line and taking the set 6-2. Rune was determined to battle his way to the end but a Djokovic victory was now certain and the Serb wrapped up the match by taking the fourth set 6-1.

US Open: Novak Djokovic takes first unsteady step toward calendar slam

Novak Djokovic hesitated to call the US&nbsp;Open a now-or-never moment, but the history-hunting Serb noted on Friday that an opportunity for a calendar year Grand Slam could be one of them.

The fact that only two male tennis players - Rod Laver and Don Budge - have ever achieved the feat underscores just how rare such moments are.

Throw in that a Djokovic calendar Slam - winning the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open in the same year - would be crowned by a record-setting 21st major title and the stakes may be as high as they have ever been for a player at a single tennis event.

"I don't want to say it's now or never for me because I think I'm going to have more opportunities in my life to win slams. I don't know if I'm going to be having more opportunities to win calendar slams. That's why it's a very unique opportunity," Djokovic told reporters in New York.

"At the same time, I don't need to put any additional pressure to what I already have, which is pretty big from my own self and from of course people around me," Djokovic added.

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Spiderman or Gumby? 🤔<a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> is no stranger to nicknames... But which one is his favorite?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/HBuV9yau4v">pic.twitter.com/HBuV9yau4v</a>
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Djokovic has said several times that pressure is a privilege, and the world's top-ranked player can expect piles of it when play gets underway on Monday at Flushing Meadows.

Not since Laver in 1969 has a man won the four Grand Slam titles in the same year. With Big Three rivals Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal out with injuries, Djokovic is a favorite to join that exclusive club.

"Obviously I know how big of an opportunity this is in front of me here in New York, where historically I've played really well over the years. But I thrive under pressure, as well. I've done that many times in my career," Djokovic said.

"This is what you work for day in, day out, all your life, to put yourself in a unique position to win Grand Slams and to make history. I have this chance, and I'm going to try to use it," Djokovic added.

Without Federer and Nadal, Djokovic is aware that the spotlight will be intensely focused on him.

On the court instead of old rivals it is young guns Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas who the 34-year-old Djokovic believes stand between him and history.

"My participation here, without Rafa and Roger participating, I feel it," said Djokovic, who will be back in action for the first time since a disappointing showing at the Tokyo Olympics. "Regardless of Roger's and Rafa's absence, you still have tremendous quality tennis players that are probably right now on hot streak."

Djokovic added, "Zverev, Medvedev, Tsitsipas - those are the three top contenders I see for the title. Everyone wants to do well at the Grand Slam. Anything can really happen."

Novak Djokovic hesitated to call the US Open a now-or-never moment, but the history-hunting Serb noted on Friday that an opportunity for a calendar year Grand Slam could be one of them.

Novak Djokovic hesitated to call the US Open a now-or-never moment, but the history-hunting Serb noted on Friday that an opportunity for a calendar year Grand Slam could be one of them. The fact that only two male tennis players - Rod Laver and Don Budge - have ever achieved the feat underscores just how rare such moments are. Throw in that a Djokovic calendar Slam - winning the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open in the same year - would be crowned by a record-setting 21st major title and the stakes may be as high as they have ever been for a player at a single tennis event. "I don't want to say it's now or never for me because I think I'm going to have more opportunities in my life to win slams. I don't know if I'm going to be having more opportunities to win calendar slams. That's why it's a very unique opportunity," Djokovic told reporters in New York. "At the same time, I don't need to put any additional pressure to what I already have, which is pretty big from my own self and from of course people around me," Djokovic added. Spiderman or Gumby? 🤔@DjokerNole is no stranger to nicknames... But which one is his favorite?#USOpen pic.twitter.com/HBuV9yau4v — US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 27, 2021 × Djokovic has said several times that pressure is a privilege, and the world's top-ranked player can expect piles of it when play gets underway on Monday at Flushing Meadows. Not since Laver in 1969 has a man won the four Grand Slam titles in the same year. With Big Three rivals Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal out with injuries, Djokovic is a favorite to join that exclusive club. "Obviously I know how big of an opportunity this is in front of me here in New York, where historically I've played really well over the years. But I thrive under pressure, as well. I've done that many times in my career," Djokovic said. "This is what you work for day in, day out, all your life, to put yourself in a unique position to win Grand Slams and to make history. I have this chance, and I'm going to try to use it," Djokovic added. Without Federer and Nadal, Djokovic is aware that the spotlight will be intensely focused on him. On the court instead of old rivals it is young guns Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas who the 34-year-old Djokovic believes stand between him and history. "My participation here, without Rafa and Roger participating, I feel it," said Djokovic, who will be back in action for the first time since a disappointing showing at the Tokyo Olympics. "Regardless of Roger's and Rafa's absence, you still have tremendous quality tennis players that are probably right now on hot streak." Djokovic added, "Zverev, Medvedev, Tsitsipas - those are the three top contenders I see for the title. Everyone wants to do well at the Grand Slam. Anything can really happen."

Novak Djokovic faces now-or-never moment at US Open

Taliban continued its offensive in Afghanistan after its weekend blitz led to the fall of key provincial cities with the US describing the situation as "grave".

Meanwhile, Canada reopened its border with the United States for the first time in 16 months after closing it last year as the pandemic began. However, only fully vaccinated US citizens are allowed inside Canada as it contemplates opening the country to foreign travellers next month.

Tension in the Korean Peninsula has mounted once again after Kim Jong Un's regime threatened the US and South Korea over military drills which are due to take place next week.

Click on the headline to know more, also check our latest video

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/grave-concern-taliban-moves-towards-mazar-i-sharif-after-weekend-blitz-404348">'Grave concern': Taliban moves towards Mazar-i-Sharif after weekend blitz</a>

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Taliban said its forces are closing in on Mazar-i-Sharif after a weekend blitz in which key provincial capitals fell to the militant groups.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-reopens-border-for-fully-vaccinated-americans-404358">Canada reopens border for fully vaccinated Americans</a>

<img alt="US-Canada border" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8784d2b-76b0-4ada-afc6-399f5654514e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/KK1.jpg" />

As Americans enter Canada the coronavirus situation in the US has deteriorated with the country recording an average 100,000 daily coronavirus cases.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/self-destructive-action-north-korea-warns-us-south-korea-over-military-drills-404364">'Self-destructive action': North Korea warns US, South Korea over military drills</a>

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The US said the military drills were part of a mutual agreement even as North Korea asserted it will boost "strong pre-emptive strike capability" to address the external threats.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-novak-djokovic-withdraws-from-western-southern-open-404346">Tennis: Novak Djokovic withdraws from Western &amp; Southern Open</a>

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&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-8-yr-old-hindu-boy-charged-with-blasphemy-in-pak-404329">Watch:&nbsp;8-yr-old Hindu boy charged with blasphemy in Pak</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-8-yr-old-hindu-boy-charged-with-blasphemy-in-pak-404329/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Taliban continued its offensive in Afghanistan after its weekend blitz led to the fall of key provincial cities with the US describing the situation as "grave". Meanwhile, Canada reopened its border with the United States for the first time in 16 months after closing it last year as the pandemic began.

Taliban continued its offensive in Afghanistan after its weekend blitz led to the fall of key provincial cities with the US describing the situation as "grave". Meanwhile, Canada reopened its border with the United States for the first time in 16 months after closing it last year as the pandemic began. However, only fully vaccinated US citizens are allowed inside Canada as it contemplates opening the country to foreign travellers next month. Tension in the Korean Peninsula has mounted once again after Kim Jong Un's regime threatened the US and South Korea over military drills which are due to take place next week. Click on the headline to know more, also check our latest video 'Grave concern': Taliban moves towards Mazar-i-Sharif after weekend blitz Taliban said its forces are closing in on Mazar-i-Sharif after a weekend blitz in which key provincial capitals fell to the militant groups. Canada reopens border for fully vaccinated Americans As Americans enter Canada the coronavirus situation in the US has deteriorated with the country recording an average 100,000 daily coronavirus cases. 'Self-destructive action': North Korea warns US, South Korea over military drills The US said the military drills were part of a mutual agreement even as North Korea asserted it will boost "strong pre-emptive strike capability" to address the external threats. Tennis: Novak Djokovic withdraws from Western & Southern Open Watch: 8-yr-old Hindu boy charged with blasphemy in Pak

Morning news brief: Taliban eye Mazar-i-Sharif, North Korea warns US, South Korea & more

World number one Novak Djokovic withdrew on Monday from this month's Western &amp; Southern Open in Cincinnati, saying he needed more time to recuperate from a season in which he won three Grand Slam tournaments and competed at the Tokyo Olympics. 
 
"I'm taking a bit longer to recover after quite a physically taxing journey from Australian Open up to Tokyo," he wrote on Twitter. 
 
"Sadly, this means I won't be ready to compete in Cincinnati this year so I'll be turning my focus to the U.S. Open and spending more time with my family. 
 
"Can't wait to see you in New York soon!"

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-rafael-nadal-hopes-to-find-footing-at-toronto-hard-court-event-404165">Tennis: Rafael Nadal hopes to find footing at Toronto hard-court event</a>

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❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/CincyTennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CincyTennis</a> <a href="https://t.co/J1N19eKOp4">pic.twitter.com/J1N19eKOp4</a>
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole/status/1424846763089960965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Djokovic, a 20-time Grand Slam champion, is a two-time champion at the Masters 1000 hardcourt event played at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Ohio. 
 
Djokovic had won all three of the Grand Slam tournaments he entered this year and had sought to be the first man to win all four and an Olympic gold in a calendar year. 
 
But those plans were dashed when he lost to eventual gold medallist Alexander Zverev of Germany in the Olympic semi-final and then to Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta in the bronze medal match. 
 
The Western &amp; Southern Open runs from Aug. 14 to Aug. 22.

World number one Novak Djokovic withdrew on Monday from this month's Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati, saying he needed more time to recuperate from a season in which he won three Grand Slam tournaments and competed at the Tokyo Olympics.

World number one Novak Djokovic withdrew on Monday from this month's Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati, saying he needed more time to recuperate from a season in which he won three Grand Slam tournaments and competed at the Tokyo Olympics. "I'm taking a bit longer to recover after quite a physically taxing journey from Australian Open up to Tokyo," he wrote on Twitter. "Sadly, this means I won't be ready to compete in Cincinnati this year so I'll be turning my focus to the U.S. Open and spending more time with my family. "Can't wait to see you in New York soon!" ALSO READ | Tennis: Rafael Nadal hopes to find footing at Toronto hard-court event ❤️ @CincyTennis pic.twitter.com/J1N19eKOp4 — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) August 9, 2021 × Djokovic, a 20-time Grand Slam champion, is a two-time champion at the Masters 1000 hardcourt event played at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Ohio. Djokovic had won all three of the Grand Slam tournaments he entered this year and had sought to be the first man to win all four and an Olympic gold in a calendar year. But those plans were dashed when he lost to eventual gold medallist Alexander Zverev of Germany in the Olympic semi-final and then to Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta in the bronze medal match. The Western & Southern Open runs from Aug. 14 to Aug. 22.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic withdraws from Western & Southern Open

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Star athletes who failed to live up to expectations

Pablo Carreno Busta beat World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the men's singles bronze medal match at the Tokyo Olympics. That gave Carreno Busta his first Olympic award.

Throughout the match, Pablo Carreno Busta possessed a strong forehand against Novak Djokovic, who looked depleted from his elimination round loss to Alexander Zverev.&nbsp;

He even held a match point on Novak Djokovic's serve during the second-set sudden tiebreaker, yet World no.1 showed a lot of flexibility to save it before in the long run winning the tiebreaker 8-6. He also went on to win the deciding set. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;Tokyo Olympics: India's star badminton player PV Sindhu to face He Bingjiao in bronze medal match

Addressing the Spanish press later, Pablo Carreno Busta communicated amusement at his presentation in the bronze medal match, considering it the greatest accomplishment of his life. He likewise expressed gratitude towards his fans for propelling him to come back from his elimination round loss to Karen Khachanov.&nbsp;

"I think this my biggest achievement. It's incredible," he said.

"After yesterday's loss I felt people's love and&nbsp;support and I had to give my all. I've been able to overcome losing the second set thanks to all the support. It's just bronze but I gave my all," he added.

Carreno Busta pondered the mid-match stagger, asserting that he thought he was done after Novak Djokovic took the subsequent set. He added that it was incredible that he could stick it out in the circumstance and get back an Olympic medal.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;Tokyo Olympics athletics: US sprinter Richardson applauds Jamaica's 100m clean sweep

"I'm in a cloud. After losing 2nd set I thought it was over. Winning over the World No. 1 is very tough. After losing the second set I thought I'd not be able to do it. But I was! It's incredible." he said.

“It’s a bronze medal, but for me it’s like a gold. I haven’t won the tournament, but it’s the best title of my career,” he added.

"I came here for a medal, it's been tough but I've got it! For my girlfriend, my mother, Gijón, Spain," he concluded.

Pablo Carreno Busta beat World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the men's singles bronze medal match at the Tokyo Olympics. That gave Carreno Busta his first Olympic award.

Pablo Carreno Busta beat World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the men's singles bronze medal match at the Tokyo Olympics. That gave Carreno Busta his first Olympic award. Throughout the match, Pablo Carreno Busta possessed a strong forehand against Novak Djokovic, who looked depleted from his elimination round loss to Alexander Zverev. He even held a match point on Novak Djokovic's serve during the second-set sudden tiebreaker, yet World no.1 showed a lot of flexibility to save it before in the long run winning the tiebreaker 8-6. He also went on to win the deciding set. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: India's star badminton player PV Sindhu to face He Bingjiao in bronze medal match Addressing the Spanish press later, Pablo Carreno Busta communicated amusement at his presentation in the bronze medal match, considering it the greatest accomplishment of his life. He likewise expressed gratitude towards his fans for propelling him to come back from his elimination round loss to Karen Khachanov. "I think this my biggest achievement. It's incredible," he said. "After yesterday's loss I felt people's love and support and I had to give my all. I've been able to overcome losing the second set thanks to all the support. It's just bronze but I gave my all," he added. Carreno Busta pondered the mid-match stagger, asserting that he thought he was done after Novak Djokovic took the subsequent set. He added that it was incredible that he could stick it out in the circumstance and get back an Olympic medal. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics athletics: US sprinter Richardson applauds Jamaica's 100m clean sweep "I'm in a cloud. After losing 2nd set I thought it was over. Winning over the World No. 1 is very tough. After losing the second set I thought I'd not be able to do it. But I was! It's incredible." he said. “It’s a bronze medal, but for me it’s like a gold. I haven’t won the tournament, but it’s the best title of my career,” he added. "I came here for a medal, it's been tough but I've got it! For my girlfriend, my mother, Gijón, Spain," he concluded.

Tokyo Olympics: ‘It is a bronze medal, but it feels like gold,' says Pablo Carreno Busta

Despite all the excitement and expectation around him perhaps attempting a Golden Slam this season, world number one Novak Djokovic was left without a medal following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

After losing to Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals, the Serb was beaten by Spain's Carreno Busta 6-4, 7-6, 6-3 in the bronze medal match.&nbsp;

During the game, Djokovic was spotted banging his racket against the net and throwing it into the stands.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> acaba de hacer esto y saben qué le hicieron? 
 
Nada. Absolutamente nada. Ni siquiera una advertencia. <a href="https://t.co/o7PxUvxFaS">pic.twitter.com/o7PxUvxFaS</a>
— Alejandro Romero (@aljorp18) <a href="https://twitter.com/aljorp18/status/1421385508945530881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The footage of the event has gone viral on the internet, with many people expressing their displeasure with the renowned Serb's on-court behaviour.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TokyoOlympics2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TokyoOlympics2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/rtg394SZ8q">pic.twitter.com/rtg394SZ8q</a>
— Sportzhustle_Squad (@sportzhustle) <a href="https://twitter.com/sportzhustle/status/1421389721435992068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The 34-year-sole old's Olympic medal came in the men's singles event in Beijing in 2008, but his incredible success this season – which included victories at the first three Grand Slams of the year – put him on track for gold in Tokyo and maybe another US Open title.&nbsp;

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Wow! 
 
An amazing performance from Pablo Carreno Busta sees him defeat Novak Djokovic and win the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bronze?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bronze</a> medal!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrongerTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrongerTogether</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ITFTennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ITFTennis</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tennis</a> <a href="https://t.co/f429sxcMHK">pic.twitter.com/f429sxcMHK</a>
— Olympics (@Olympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics/status/1421394388178067456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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If Djokovic had won each of those awards in a row, he would have completed an incredible Golden Slam, but that goal is now firmly out of reach.&nbsp;

For Djokovic and his followers who were expecting a gold medal, this is a sad setback.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite all the excitement and expectation around him perhaps attempting a Golden Slam this season, world number one Novak Djokovic was left without a medal following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

Despite all the excitement and expectation around him perhaps attempting a Golden Slam this season, world number one Novak Djokovic was left without a medal following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. After losing to Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals, the Serb was beaten by Spain's Carreno Busta 6-4, 7-6, 6-3 in the bronze medal match. During the game, Djokovic was spotted banging his racket against the net and throwing it into the stands. @DjokerNole acaba de hacer esto y saben qué le hicieron? Nada. Absolutamente nada. Ni siquiera una advertencia. pic.twitter.com/o7PxUvxFaS — Alejandro Romero (@aljorp18) July 31, 2021 × The footage of the event has gone viral on the internet, with many people expressing their displeasure with the renowned Serb's on-court behaviour. #TokyoOlympics2020 pic.twitter.com/rtg394SZ8q — Sportzhustle_Squad (@sportzhustle) July 31, 2021 × The 34-year-sole old's Olympic medal came in the men's singles event in Beijing in 2008, but his incredible success this season – which included victories at the first three Grand Slams of the year – put him on track for gold in Tokyo and maybe another US Open title. Wow! An amazing performance from Pablo Carreno Busta sees him defeat Novak Djokovic and win the #bronze medal!#StrongerTogether | #Tokyo2020 | @ITFTennis | #Tennis pic.twitter.com/f429sxcMHK — Olympics (@Olympics) July 31, 2021 × If Djokovic had won each of those awards in a row, he would have completed an incredible Golden Slam, but that goal is now firmly out of reach. For Djokovic and his followers who were expecting a gold medal, this is a sad setback. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Tokyo 2020 Olympics — Novak Djokovic smashes racket during bronze medal match

World number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-tennis-spains-carreno-busta-defeats-novak-djokovic-to-win-bronze-medal-401951">Novak Djokovic</a> said he was "not sure" about his fitness for the US Open after pulling out of the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;mixed doubles bronze medal match with a shoulder injury on Saturday.

The 34-year-old Serb could become the first man to complete a calendar Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969 when the US Open gets under way on August 30.

The withdrawal in Tokyo came after the 20-time major champion lost his cool on his way to a surprise 6-4, 6-7 (6/8), 6-3 defeat against Pablo Carreno Busta in the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;singles bronze-medal match.

He admitted that his exertions in Japan have taken their toll but he still hopes to be fit enough to challenge at Flushing Meadows.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-athletics-kenyan-sprinter-tests-positive-for-banned-substance-team-says-401967">Tokyo Olympics athletics: Kenyan sprinter tests positive for banned substance, team says</a>

"The consequences physically hopefully will not create a problem for me for the US Open, but that's something that I'm not sure about right now," said Djokovic.

"But I'm not regretting for giving it all because at the end of the day, when you play for your country, that's necessary."

The International Tennis Federation said Djokovic had withdrawn with a "left shoulder injury".

"Ashleigh Barty and John Peers receive a walkover against Djokovic and Nina Stojanovic and win the bronze medal for Australia," the ITF added.

Djokovic had been eyeing two gold medals when he played the singles and mixed doubles semi-finals on Friday -- but less than 24 hours after his hopes for gold were ended -- he was preparing to leave the Ariake Tennis Park without a medal of any colour.

He lost a gruelling match to Carreno Busta which lasted two hours and 47 minutes in suffocating heat, despite saving five match points.

The Serbian sporting icon's best result at the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;remains his bronze medal in Beijing in 2008.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-gymnastics-simone-biles-withdraws-from-event-finals-for-vault-and-uneven-bars-401880" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Simone Biles withdraws from event finals for vault and uneven bars</a>

"I just didn't deliver yesterday and today," said Djokovic, whose singles loss to Alexander Zverev ended his Golden Grand Slam bid.

"The level of tennis dropped, also due to exhaustion, mentally and physically."

His next opportunity to win an Olympic title will come in Paris in three years' time, when he will be 37.

"I know that I will bounce back. I will try to keep going for Paris Olympic Games and fight for my country to win medals," insisted Djokovic.

"I'm sorry that I disappointed a lot of sports fans in my country. But that's sport, I gave it all, whatever I had left in the tank, which was not so much. I left it out on the court."

'Sorry' for racquet smash

On Saturday, Djokovic brought back memories of his infamous default against Carreno Busta last year at the US Open, when he inadvertently struck a ball at a line judge. 
This time he threw his racquet high into the empty stands as he saw a break point come and go in the opening game of the third set, and continued to cut an angry figure, destroying another racquet by smashing it against the net post.

He was given a warning by the umpire after that second incident, but not following the first.

"It was an emotional outburst and it happens," said Djokovic. "You're tense on the court, in the heat of the battle.

"It's not the first time and it's not the last time probably. It's not nice, of course, but it's part of, I guess, who I am.

"I don't like doing these things, I'm sorry for sending this kind of message, but we're all human beings and sometimes it's hard to control."

World number one Novak Djokovic said he was "not sure" about his fitness for the US Open after pulling out of the Tokyo Olympics mixed doubles bronze medal match with a shoulder injury on Saturday.

World number one Novak Djokovic said he was "not sure" about his fitness for the US Open after pulling out of the Tokyo Olympics mixed doubles bronze medal match with a shoulder injury on Saturday. The 34-year-old Serb could become the first man to complete a calendar Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969 when the US Open gets under way on August 30. The withdrawal in Tokyo came after the 20-time major champion lost his cool on his way to a surprise 6-4, 6-7 (6/8), 6-3 defeat against Pablo Carreno Busta in the Olympics singles bronze-medal match. He admitted that his exertions in Japan have taken their toll but he still hopes to be fit enough to challenge at Flushing Meadows. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics athletics: Kenyan sprinter tests positive for banned substance, team says "The consequences physically hopefully will not create a problem for me for the US Open, but that's something that I'm not sure about right now," said Djokovic. "But I'm not regretting for giving it all because at the end of the day, when you play for your country, that's necessary." The International Tennis Federation said Djokovic had withdrawn with a "left shoulder injury". "Ashleigh Barty and John Peers receive a walkover against Djokovic and Nina Stojanovic and win the bronze medal for Australia," the ITF added. Djokovic had been eyeing two gold medals when he played the singles and mixed doubles semi-finals on Friday -- but less than 24 hours after his hopes for gold were ended -- he was preparing to leave the Ariake Tennis Park without a medal of any colour. He lost a gruelling match to Carreno Busta which lasted two hours and 47 minutes in suffocating heat, despite saving five match points. The Serbian sporting icon's best result at the Olympics remains his bronze medal in Beijing in 2008. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Simone Biles withdraws from event finals for vault and uneven bars "I just didn't deliver yesterday and today," said Djokovic, whose singles loss to Alexander Zverev ended his Golden Grand Slam bid. "The level of tennis dropped, also due to exhaustion, mentally and physically." His next opportunity to win an Olympic title will come in Paris in three years' time, when he will be 37. "I know that I will bounce back. I will try to keep going for Paris Olympic Games and fight for my country to win medals," insisted Djokovic. "I'm sorry that I disappointed a lot of sports fans in my country. But that's sport, I gave it all, whatever I had left in the tank, which was not so much. I left it out on the court." 'Sorry' for racquet smash On Saturday, Djokovic brought back memories of his infamous default against Carreno Busta last year at the US Open, when he inadvertently struck a ball at a line judge. This time he threw his racquet high into the empty stands as he saw a break point come and go in the opening game of the third set, and continued to cut an angry figure, destroying another racquet by smashing it against the net post. He was given a warning by the umpire after that second incident, but not following the first. "It was an emotional outburst and it happens," said Djokovic. "You're tense on the court, in the heat of the battle. "It's not the first time and it's not the last time probably. It's not nice, of course, but it's part of, I guess, who I am. "I don't like doing these things, I'm sorry for sending this kind of message, but we're all human beings and sometimes it's hard to control."

Tokyo 2020: Novak Djokovic 'not sure' about US Open fitness after Olympics nightmare

Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta defeated Novak Djokovic in three sets to take the bronze medal in the tennis men's singles at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on July 31 (Saturday). The Spaniard played aggressively throughout against the world number one and struck the ball with great power. He defeated the Serbian tennis star 6-4, 6-7(6), 6-3 in a match that lasted two hours and 49 minutes.&nbsp;Since Rafael Nadal won gold in Beijing in 2008, Busta is the first Spaniard to win a medal in the men's singles.

Earlier, Djokovic's dreams of Golden Grand Slam were ended by Alexander Zverev on Friday. Djokovic was looking forward to becoming the first man to win all four majors and an Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year but the hopes were dashed.&nbsp;

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What a reaction to a famous moment. 
 
🇪🇸 <a href="https://twitter.com/pablocarreno91?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pablocarreno91</a> beat the World No. 1 &amp; 2 on his way to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> men's singles bronze medal 🥉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tennis</a> <a href="https://t.co/uCDQ4FLHI7">pic.twitter.com/uCDQ4FLHI7</a>
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The 34-year-old Djokovic has previously won a bronze at the Beijing Games in 2008 and it was his third appearance and second defeat in a singles bronze medal match.&nbsp;

Now, he will focus on the mixed doubles, partnering Nina Stojanovic against Australian pair Ash Barty and John Peers.&nbsp;

Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta defeated Novak Djokovic in three sets to take the bronze medal in the tennis men's singles at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on July 31 (Saturday).

Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta defeated Novak Djokovic in three sets to take the bronze medal in the tennis men's singles at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on July 31 (Saturday). The Spaniard played aggressively throughout against the world number one and struck the ball with great power. He defeated the Serbian tennis star 6-4, 6-7(6), 6-3 in a match that lasted two hours and 49 minutes. Since Rafael Nadal won gold in Beijing in 2008, Busta is the first Spaniard to win a medal in the men's singles. Earlier, Djokovic's dreams of Golden Grand Slam were ended by Alexander Zverev on Friday. Djokovic was looking forward to becoming the first man to win all four majors and an Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year but the hopes were dashed. What a reaction to a famous moment. 🇪🇸 @pablocarreno91 beat the World No. 1 & 2 on his way to the #Tokyo2020 men's singles bronze medal 🥉#Olympics #Tennis pic.twitter.com/uCDQ4FLHI7 — ATP Tour (@atptour) July 31, 2021 × The 34-year-old Djokovic has previously won a bronze at the Beijing Games in 2008 and it was his third appearance and second defeat in a singles bronze medal match. Now, he will focus on the mixed doubles, partnering Nina Stojanovic against Australian pair Ash Barty and John Peers.

Tokyo Olympics tennis: Spain's Carreno Busta defeats Novak Djokovic to win bronze medal

Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;hopes of becoming the first man to complete the Golden Slam were dashed on Friday after he was unexpectedly beaten by Germany's Alexander Zverev in the singles semi-finals at the Tokyo Games on Friday.

The Serbian's 1-6 6-3 6-1 defeat also ended his dream of winning an Olympic singles gold medal, the only major honour missing from his long list of accolades.

The world number one had arrived in Tokyo gunning for the Golden Slam -- winning all four majors and Olympic gold in the same year -- after triumphing at the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon in 2021.

Djokovic, who won singles bronze at the 2008 Beijing Games, appeared to be on course for an easy victory on Friday when he claimed the opening set for the loss of just one game and then went up a break midway through the second.

But world number five Zverev managed to find another gear, breaking back and reeling off eight games in a row to take the set and take a commanding lead in the decider.

Zverev sealed the victory with a winner to become the first German man to make an Olympic tennis final since Tommy Haas won silver at the Sydney Games in 2000.

He will play Karen Khachanov of the Russian Olympic Committee in the championship match.

Novak Djokovic hopes of becoming the first man to complete the Golden Slam were dashed on Friday after he was unexpectedly beaten by Germany's Alexander Zverev in the singles semi-finals at the Tokyo Games on Friday.

Novak Djokovic hopes of becoming the first man to complete the Golden Slam were dashed on Friday after he was unexpectedly beaten by Germany's Alexander Zverev in the singles semi-finals at the Tokyo Games on Friday. The Serbian's 1-6 6-3 6-1 defeat also ended his dream of winning an Olympic singles gold medal, the only major honour missing from his long list of accolades. The world number one had arrived in Tokyo gunning for the Golden Slam -- winning all four majors and Olympic gold in the same year -- after triumphing at the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon in 2021. Djokovic, who won singles bronze at the 2008 Beijing Games, appeared to be on course for an easy victory on Friday when he claimed the opening set for the loss of just one game and then went up a break midway through the second. But world number five Zverev managed to find another gear, breaking back and reeling off eight games in a row to take the set and take a commanding lead in the decider. Zverev sealed the victory with a winner to become the first German man to make an Olympic tennis final since Tommy Haas won silver at the Sydney Games in 2000. He will play Karen Khachanov of the Russian Olympic Committee in the championship match.

Tokyo Olympics, Tennis: Djokovic's Golden Slam dreams dashed by Zverev

World number one has clarified that he is remarkably inspired to fill the hole of an Olympic gold medal on his broad vocation continue.&nbsp;

Presently, with his third-round win over Spain's Davidovich Fokina, Djokovic is only one game away from Roger Federer's record of most men's singles wins at the Olympics.&nbsp;

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By winning three matches in Tokyo this year, Novak Djokovic has likewise equalled Andy Murray's count of 12 match wins at the Olympics. Andy Murray won six matches each at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics and stays the solitary male in tennis history to win two sequential gold medals in singles.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic has partaken in the Olympics four times in his profession up until now. The Serbian, nonetheless, has not delighted in much accomplishment at the quadrennial occasion. Djokovic's best outcome at the Olympics came in Beijing in 2008, when he won the bronze medal.&nbsp;

Roger Federer has likewise participated in four releases of the Olympics, with his best outcome being a silver medal in men's singles at the 2012 London Games.&nbsp;

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Novak Djokovic will confront home most loved Kei Nishikori in the quarterfinals on Thursday. The Serb has a 16-2 lead in the straight-on against the Japanese and is the staggering top choice to advance to the elimination rounds.&nbsp;

The 20-time Major victor could confront Germany's Alexander Zverev or Frances' Jeremy Chardy in the elimination rounds before a possible meeting with second seed Daniil Medvedev in the final.

World number one has clarified that he is remarkably inspired to fill the hole of an Olympic gold medal on his broad vocation continue. Presently, with his third-round win over Spain's Davidovich Fokina, Djokovic is only one game away from Roger Federer's record of most men's singles wins at the Olympics.

World number one has clarified that he is remarkably inspired to fill the hole of an Olympic gold medal on his broad vocation continue. Presently, with his third-round win over Spain's Davidovich Fokina, Djokovic is only one game away from Roger Federer's record of most men's singles wins at the Olympics. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Andy Murray casts doubt on Olympic future after doubles exit By winning three matches in Tokyo this year, Novak Djokovic has likewise equalled Andy Murray's count of 12 match wins at the Olympics. Andy Murray won six matches each at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics and stays the solitary male in tennis history to win two sequential gold medals in singles. Novak Djokovic has partaken in the Olympics four times in his profession up until now. The Serbian, nonetheless, has not delighted in much accomplishment at the quadrennial occasion. Djokovic's best outcome at the Olympics came in Beijing in 2008, when he won the bronze medal. Roger Federer has likewise participated in four releases of the Olympics, with his best outcome being a silver medal in men's singles at the 2012 London Games. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Daniil Medvedev fumes at journalist asks for him to be removed over 'cheater' question Novak Djokovic will confront home most loved Kei Nishikori in the quarterfinals on Thursday. The Serb has a 16-2 lead in the straight-on against the Japanese and is the staggering top choice to advance to the elimination rounds. The 20-time Major victor could confront Germany's Alexander Zverev or Frances' Jeremy Chardy in the elimination rounds before a possible meeting with second seed Daniil Medvedev in the final.

Tokyo 2020: Novak Djokovic just one step away from equalling Roger Federer's Olympic record

Novak Djokovic said he is "getting better and better" after easing into the Tokyo Olympics men's tennis semi-finals on Thursday with a straight-set thrashing of Japanese hope Kei Nishikori.

The world number one, chasing a calendar Golden Grand Slam, ended home interest in the tennis with a ruthless 6-2, 6-0 victory in only 70 minutes.

Djokovic has never won the Olympic singles title, with a bronze medal in 2008 his best result at the Games, but will face either Alexander Zverev or Jeremy Chardy in the last four.

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"I'm very happy, my best performance in the tournament," said the top seed.

"Matches are not getting easier, but my level of tennis is getting better and better.

"I've done that many, many times in my career. I know that I'm (the) kind of player that the further the tournament goes, the better I'm feeling on the court."

The 34-year-old Serb, who has already captured the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this season, was never in trouble against Nishikori, who made 16 unforced errors.

The former world number four did save two match points in the final game, but Djokovic made no mistake on the next opportunity.

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<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

The quarter-final was played in cooler conditions than earlier in the tournament after Djokovic lobbied organizers to change the schedule, moving the day's start time from 11:00 am local time (0200 GMT) to 3:00 pm.

It was also the second match on the center court at the Ariake Tennis Park after the women's semi-final between Belinda Bencic and Elena Rybakina lasted almost three hours in the still suffocating heat.

"It was fantastic. Playing after&nbsp;five (pm)&nbsp;is completely different," said Djokovic.

"Obviously, there is&nbsp;a little bit of a breeze, but still very, very humid, you sweat a lot, but you don't have the heat, you don't have the sun that, in combination with the humidity,&nbsp;is just brutal."

Novak Djokovic said he is "getting better and better" after easing into the Tokyo Olympics men's tennis semi-finals on Thursday with a straight-set thrashing of Japanese hope Kei Nishikori.

Novak Djokovic said he is "getting better and better" after easing into the Tokyo Olympics men's tennis semi-finals on Thursday with a straight-set thrashing of Japanese hope Kei Nishikori. The world number one, chasing a calendar Golden Grand Slam, ended home interest in the tennis with a ruthless 6-2, 6-0 victory in only 70 minutes. Djokovic has never won the Olympic singles title, with a bronze medal in 2008 his best result at the Games, but will face either Alexander Zverev or Jeremy Chardy in the last four. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Novak Djokovic just one step away from equalling Roger Federer's Olympic record "I'm very happy, my best performance in the tournament," said the top seed. "Matches are not getting easier, but my level of tennis is getting better and better. "I've done that many, many times in my career. I know that I'm (the) kind of player that the further the tournament goes, the better I'm feeling on the court." The 34-year-old Serb, who has already captured the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this season, was never in trouble against Nishikori, who made 16 unforced errors. The former world number four did save two match points in the final game, but Djokovic made no mistake on the next opportunity. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: American star pole-vaulter Sam Kendricks tests positive for COVID-19 The quarter-final was played in cooler conditions than earlier in the tournament after Djokovic lobbied organizers to change the schedule, moving the day's start time from 11:00 am local time (0200 GMT) to 3:00 pm. It was also the second match on the center court at the Ariake Tennis Park after the women's semi-final between Belinda Bencic and Elena Rybakina lasted almost three hours in the still suffocating heat. "It was fantastic. Playing after five (pm) is completely different," said Djokovic. "Obviously, there is a little bit of a breeze, but still very, very humid, you sweat a lot, but you don't have the heat, you don't have the sun that, in combination with the humidity, is just brutal."

Tokyo 2020: Novak Djokovic says he's 'getting better' after cruising into Olympic semis

Novak Djokovic moved one step closer to a historic Golden Slam on Wednesday, advancing into the Tokyo 2020 men's singles quarter-finals as other competitors struggled in hot and humid conditions.

French Open finalists Stefanos Tsitsipas and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova bowed out, while world number two Daniil Medvedev struggled to breathe during his 6-2 3-6 6-2 third round win over Italian Fabio Fognini.

Medvedev, competing for the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) team, was leading 5-2 in the first set when he requested a medical timeout.

"Even from the first set, I didn't feel good enough with my breathing," said the 25-year-old, who will next meet Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta.

"That's why I called the physio, I felt like my diaphragm was blocked."

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Novak Djokovic, who took to the court later in the afternoon, had a comparatively easier time, with a comfortable 6-3 6-1 win over Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

The 34-year-old Serbian, who is aiming to become the first man to win all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in the same calendar year, will next play Japan's Kei Nishikori, who moved past Ilya Ivashka of Belarus 7-6(7) 6-0.

Nishikori, who won the bronze medal at the Rio Games in 2016, is the host country's last remaining hope for a singles medal after women's number two Naomi Osaka lost in a third round upset on Tuesday.

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Greece's Tsitsipas was unable to recover after taking a nasty tumble during a second set tiebreak against Frenchman Ugo Humbert, losing 2-6 7-6(4) 6-2.

The 22-year-old, who reached the men's final at Roland Garros before losing to Djokovic, will compete in the mixed doubles with Maria Sakkari later on Wednesday.

In the women's singles, Pavlyuchenkova of the ROC was beaten 6-0 3-6 6-3 in the quarter-finals by Switzerland's Belinda Bencic, who will face Kazakh Elena Rybakina for a spot in the gold medal match.

Ukraine's world number six Elina Svitolina, the fourth and highest surviving seed in the women's singles draw, also advanced with a 6-4 6-4 win over an error-prone Camila Giorgi of Italy.

In the men's doubles quarter-finals, Britain's Andy Murray and Joe Salisbury lost to Croatians Marin Cilic and Ivan Dodig 4-6 7-6(2) (10-7) in a supertiebreaker.

Novak Djokovic moved one step closer to a historic Golden Slam on Wednesday, advancing into the Tokyo 2020 men's singles quarter-finals as other competitors struggled in hot and humid conditions.

Novak Djokovic moved one step closer to a historic Golden Slam on Wednesday, advancing into the Tokyo 2020 men's singles quarter-finals as other competitors struggled in hot and humid conditions. French Open finalists Stefanos Tsitsipas and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova bowed out, while world number two Daniil Medvedev struggled to breathe during his 6-2 3-6 6-2 third round win over Italian Fabio Fognini. Medvedev, competing for the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) team, was leading 5-2 in the first set when he requested a medical timeout. "Even from the first set, I didn't feel good enough with my breathing," said the 25-year-old, who will next meet Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta. "That's why I called the physio, I felt like my diaphragm was blocked." ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Andy Murray casts doubt on Olympic future after doubles exit Novak Djokovic, who took to the court later in the afternoon, had a comparatively easier time, with a comfortable 6-3 6-1 win over Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. The 34-year-old Serbian, who is aiming to become the first man to win all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in the same calendar year, will next play Japan's Kei Nishikori, who moved past Ilya Ivashka of Belarus 7-6(7) 6-0. Nishikori, who won the bronze medal at the Rio Games in 2016, is the host country's last remaining hope for a singles medal after women's number two Naomi Osaka lost in a third round upset on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: 16 more cases of COVID-19 emerge taking the total number to 169 Greece's Tsitsipas was unable to recover after taking a nasty tumble during a second set tiebreak against Frenchman Ugo Humbert, losing 2-6 7-6(4) 6-2. The 22-year-old, who reached the men's final at Roland Garros before losing to Djokovic, will compete in the mixed doubles with Maria Sakkari later on Wednesday. In the women's singles, Pavlyuchenkova of the ROC was beaten 6-0 3-6 6-3 in the quarter-finals by Switzerland's Belinda Bencic, who will face Kazakh Elena Rybakina for a spot in the gold medal match. Ukraine's world number six Elina Svitolina, the fourth and highest surviving seed in the women's singles draw, also advanced with a 6-4 6-4 win over an error-prone Camila Giorgi of Italy. In the men's doubles quarter-finals, Britain's Andy Murray and Joe Salisbury lost to Croatians Marin Cilic and Ivan Dodig 4-6 7-6(2) (10-7) in a supertiebreaker.

Olympics 2020: Novak Djokovic marches on as rivals struggle in Tokyo heat

Novak Djokovic shot&nbsp;past Jan-Lennard Struff to advance to the third round of the Tokyo Olympics&nbsp;where he will confront Spain's&nbsp;Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.&nbsp;

The Serbian, who has been in scorching form in the entire season&nbsp;is the staggering top pick to bring home the gold medal in Tokyo. Although, his rivals Stefanos Tsitsipas, Daniil Medvedev, and Alexander Zverev have likewise played some fine tennis and are all into the third round.&nbsp;

Addressing the media after his victory over Jan-Lennard Struff, Novak&nbsp;Djokovic said he is totally focused on Wednesday's match with Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, and that he isn't focusing on the thing his adversaries are doing.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-my-attitude-wasnt-great-says-japans-tennis-star-naomi-osaka-after-shock-exit-400938" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: 'My attitude wasn't great', says Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka after shock exit</a>

“Fokina is the only one now on my mind, the priority is the next match, I can’t look at what Medvedev, Tsitsipas, or Zverev are doing, my biggest rival is here,” he said.

Novak Djokovic and Davidovich Fokina have met before as well and are familiar with one another's game. They have trained together in Spain.

The world no.1, who won his last match in straight sets, said he would need to be careful about the danger his opposition will present in Tokyo.&nbsp;

“We know each other well, we often train together when I’m in Spain,” Djokovic added. “He is a ‘clay specialist’ but he also plays well here."

Djokovic has won the Belgrade Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and two matches in Tokyo.&nbsp;

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The world No. 1 said he was especially satisfied with his display against Jan-Lennard Struff. He&nbsp;said that breaking his opponent's&nbsp;serve late in the initial set steered the results on his way.&nbsp;

“The crucial moment of the match was my break in the 10th game of the first set. I took the lead and after that, it was easier for me in the second,” he said. 
&nbsp; 
“I am satisfied with how I played, it was better than in the first round, especially from the baseline," he added.

Novak Djokovic shot past Jan-Lennard Struff to advance to the third round of the Tokyo Olympics where he will confront Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. The Serbian, who has been in scorching form in the entire season is the staggering top pick to bring home the gold medal in Tokyo.

Novak Djokovic shot past Jan-Lennard Struff to advance to the third round of the Tokyo Olympics where he will confront Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. The Serbian, who has been in scorching form in the entire season is the staggering top pick to bring home the gold medal in Tokyo. Although, his rivals Stefanos Tsitsipas, Daniil Medvedev, and Alexander Zverev have likewise played some fine tennis and are all into the third round. Addressing the media after his victory over Jan-Lennard Struff, Novak Djokovic said he is totally focused on Wednesday's match with Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, and that he isn't focusing on the thing his adversaries are doing. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: 'My attitude wasn't great', says Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka after shock exit “Fokina is the only one now on my mind, the priority is the next match, I can’t look at what Medvedev, Tsitsipas, or Zverev are doing, my biggest rival is here,” he said. Novak Djokovic and Davidovich Fokina have met before as well and are familiar with one another's game. They have trained together in Spain. The world no.1, who won his last match in straight sets, said he would need to be careful about the danger his opposition will present in Tokyo. “We know each other well, we often train together when I’m in Spain,” Djokovic added. “He is a ‘clay specialist’ but he also plays well here." Djokovic has won the Belgrade Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and two matches in Tokyo. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain moves into quarterfinals with a win over German pugilist The world No. 1 said he was especially satisfied with his display against Jan-Lennard Struff. He said that breaking his opponent's serve late in the initial set steered the results on his way. “The crucial moment of the match was my break in the 10th game of the first set. I took the lead and after that, it was easier for me in the second,” he said. “I am satisfied with how I played, it was better than in the first round, especially from the baseline," he added.

Tokyo Olympics: ‘Focused on next rival, not Medvedev, Tsitsipas or Zverev', says Novak Djokovic

World no.1 Novak Djokovic remained steady on his quest to become the first male player to complete the Golden Slam.

The Serbian, who is attempting to become the first man to win all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in the same calendar year, had a 6-4 6-3 win over Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany in the men's singles.

The players were evenly matched at the start of the first set but the 20-time Grand Slam champion proved too strong, pouncing on Struff's serve while leading 5-3 to take the first set. An early break in the second secured the victory.

"It was a tough opponent for a second round... but you know, I'm very pleased with the way I felt on the court," Djokovic told reporters.

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Struff's compatriot and fourth seed Alexander Zverev brushed aside Daniel Elahi Galan of Colombia 6-2 6-2, while world number two Daniil Medvedev breezed through with a comfortable 6-2 6-1 win over India's Sumit Nagal.

The tennis tournament reported its first COVID-19 case among players on Monday after men's doubles competitor Jean-Julien Rojer of the Netherlands tested positive.

Rojer is the sixth member of the Dutch Olympic delegation to test positive after infections reported by a skateboarder, a taekwondo fighter and three members of the rowing team, including staff.

Rojer and his partner Wesley Koolhof were placed in isolation, while their second-round opponents from New Zealand received a walkover into the quarter-finals, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) said in a statement.

World no.1 Novak Djokovic remained steady on his quest to become the first male player to complete the Golden Slam. The Serbian, who is attempting to become the first man to win all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in the same calendar year, had a 6-4 6-3 win over Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany in the men's singles.

World no.1 Novak Djokovic remained steady on his quest to become the first male player to complete the Golden Slam. The Serbian, who is attempting to become the first man to win all four Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in the same calendar year, had a 6-4 6-3 win over Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany in the men's singles. The players were evenly matched at the start of the first set but the 20-time Grand Slam champion proved too strong, pouncing on Struff's serve while leading 5-3 to take the first set. An early break in the second secured the victory. "It was a tough opponent for a second round... but you know, I'm very pleased with the way I felt on the court," Djokovic told reporters. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Sumit Nagal loses to Daniil Medvedev in second round Struff's compatriot and fourth seed Alexander Zverev brushed aside Daniel Elahi Galan of Colombia 6-2 6-2, while world number two Daniil Medvedev breezed through with a comfortable 6-2 6-1 win over India's Sumit Nagal. The tennis tournament reported its first COVID-19 case among players on Monday after men's doubles competitor Jean-Julien Rojer of the Netherlands tested positive. Rojer is the sixth member of the Dutch Olympic delegation to test positive after infections reported by a skateboarder, a taekwondo fighter and three members of the rowing team, including staff. Rojer and his partner Wesley Koolhof were placed in isolation, while their second-round opponents from New Zealand received a walkover into the quarter-finals, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) said in a statement.

Tokyo Olympics: World no.1 Novak Djokovic remains on track for gold medal

Novak Djokovic launched his bid to stay on course for a Golden Slam with a clinical 6-2, 6-2 win over 139th-ranked Hugo Dellien of Bolivia on Saturday, as sweltering conditions in Tokyo took a toll on the players on the opening day of tennis at the Games.

Steffi Graf is the only player to have won all four Grand Slams and the Olympic gold in the same year but the 34-year-old Serbian is three-fifths of the way there, needing a Tokyo gold and then the US&nbsp;Open trophy to match the German's 1988 feat.

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The world number one would not have wanted to spend too much time on the court in the heat and humidity and wrapped up proceedings on Centre Court on day one in about an hour.

With temperatures hovering around 33 degrees Celsius (91.4°F) with high humidity, players struggled to cope and did not find much comfort from ice bags and a tube blowing cool air.

"Very tough," Djokovic, who will face German Jan-Lennard Struff in the second round, said about the conditions.

"I think today, from also speaking to other players, was the hottest day so far. It's very hot but also humid. The hardcourts absorb the heat, it stays trapped in there. Not much wind, not much breeze. It was challenging definitely.

"But I'm pleased to overcome the first hurdle and I think I was solid on the court. I can always do better but the first match, I'm satisfied."

Novak Djokovic launched his bid to stay on course for a Golden Slam with a clinical 6-2, 6-2 win over 139th-ranked Hugo Dellien of Bolivia on Saturday, as sweltering conditions in Tokyo took a toll on the players on the opening day of tennis at the Games.

Novak Djokovic launched his bid to stay on course for a Golden Slam with a clinical 6-2, 6-2 win over 139th-ranked Hugo Dellien of Bolivia on Saturday, as sweltering conditions in Tokyo took a toll on the players on the opening day of tennis at the Games. Steffi Graf is the only player to have won all four Grand Slams and the Olympic gold in the same year but the 34-year-old Serbian is three-fifths of the way there, needing a Tokyo gold and then the US Open trophy to match the German's 1988 feat. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics- 'Remember the name': Sporting icons congratulate Mirabai Chanu for silver medal win The world number one would not have wanted to spend too much time on the court in the heat and humidity and wrapped up proceedings on Centre Court on day one in about an hour. With temperatures hovering around 33 degrees Celsius (91.4°F) with high humidity, players struggled to cope and did not find much comfort from ice bags and a tube blowing cool air. "Very tough," Djokovic, who will face German Jan-Lennard Struff in the second round, said about the conditions. "I think today, from also speaking to other players, was the hottest day so far. It's very hot but also humid. The hardcourts absorb the heat, it stays trapped in there. Not much wind, not much breeze. It was challenging definitely. "But I'm pleased to overcome the first hurdle and I think I was solid on the court. I can always do better but the first match, I'm satisfied."

Tokyo Olympics: Novak Djokovic beats Hugo Dellien to continue his quest for gold medal

Novak&nbsp;Djokovic's road to the Golden Slam is not an easy one, with possible matches against Andrey Rublev and Alexander Zverev in his path at the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics.

Djokovic, representing Serbia, has won the season's first three grand slams and could become the first male player ever to win the Golden Slam if he first captures gold in Tokyo. Then all that's left is winning the US&nbsp;Open in August. Steffi Graf is the only player to ever do it, in 1988.

However,&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;has just one bronze medal to his name in three previous&nbsp;Olympics. He lost to Juan Martin del Potro twice, in 2012 (London) and 2016 (Rio), after capturing bronze at the 2008 Beijing&nbsp;Olympics.

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Djokovic, 34-3 this ATP season, opens against Bolivia's Hugo Dellien, ranked 139th in the world. But then things could get harder.

Djokovic&nbsp;could face Italian Lorenzo Musetti in the third round.&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;trailed Musetti 2-love at the French Open last month before rallying for the victory.

Djokovic&nbsp;could face World No. 7 Rublev of Russia in the quarterfinals; it would be the first match between them. If he wins there, he could face the fifth-ranked Zverev of Germany in the semifinals.

World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev of Russia makes his Olympic debut against Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan.

The tennis event is being held at Ariake Tennis Park, site of the Rakuten Japan Open Tennis Championships. The ATP-500 event is played in October.

Novak Djokovic's road to the Golden Slam is not an easy one, with possible matches against Andrey Rublev and Alexander Zverev in his path at the Tokyo Olympics. Djokovic, representing Serbia, has won the season's first three grand slams and could become the first male player ever to win the Golden Slam if he first captures gold in Tokyo.

Novak Djokovic's road to the Golden Slam is not an easy one, with possible matches against Andrey Rublev and Alexander Zverev in his path at the Tokyo Olympics. Djokovic, representing Serbia, has won the season's first three grand slams and could become the first male player ever to win the Golden Slam if he first captures gold in Tokyo. Then all that's left is winning the US Open in August. Steffi Graf is the only player to ever do it, in 1988. However, Djokovic has just one bronze medal to his name in three previous Olympics. He lost to Juan Martin del Potro twice, in 2012 (London) and 2016 (Rio), after capturing bronze at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Also read | Tokyo Olympics 2020 Day 1 Live Updates: Indian men archers finish below 30 places Djokovic, 34-3 this ATP season, opens against Bolivia's Hugo Dellien, ranked 139th in the world. But then things could get harder. Djokovic could face Italian Lorenzo Musetti in the third round. Djokovic trailed Musetti 2-love at the French Open last month before rallying for the victory. Djokovic could face World No. 7 Rublev of Russia in the quarterfinals; it would be the first match between them. If he wins there, he could face the fifth-ranked Zverev of Germany in the semifinals. World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev of Russia makes his Olympic debut against Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan. The tennis event is being held at Ariake Tennis Park, site of the Rakuten Japan Open Tennis Championships. The ATP-500 event is played in October.

Novak Djokovic faces tough draw at Olympics

The first-round ties for Tokyo Olympics were revealed exactly 48 hours before players will take the court at Ariake Tennis Park, which starts on Saturday.&nbsp;

Top-seeded Novak Djokovic will open against No.139 Hugo Dellien of Bolivia. The World No.1 is endeavoring to become the first man to finish a Golden Slam by winning every one of the four significant tennis competitions and an Olympic singles gold medal in the same year.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic won Wimbledon and won his 20th Grand Slam title, subsequent to opening the year by winning the Australian Open and French Open.&nbsp;

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Top-seeded Ashleigh Barty, the newly delegated Wimbledon women's champion will make her Olympic debut for Australia against Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain. She will additionally be playing doubles with Storm Sanders.&nbsp;

Naomi Osaka's first match in almost two months will come against 52nd-positioned Zheng Saisai of China in the opening round of the Olympic tennis competition.&nbsp;

The second-seeded Osaka, who represents Japan and is one of the top names at the Games, is getting back to rivalry after she walked out of the French Open after being fined and threatened with disqualification for refusing to attend mandatory post-match press conferences over mental health issues.

Defending champion Olympic hero Andy Murray got an extreme opener against fifteenth-positioned Felix Auger Aliassime of Canada, who is seeded 10th.&nbsp;

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Second-seeded Daniil Medvedev opens against Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan and third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas meets Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany.&nbsp;

Also, the two singles draws have created a line of captivating first-round matches, including a mouth-watering opener between defending bronze medallist Kei Nishikori and Andrey Rublev, Carla Suarez Navarro's starting against Tunisia's Ons Jabeur, and Wimbledon finalist Hubert Hurkacz taking on Hungary's Marton Fucsovics to name a few.

The first-round ties for Tokyo Olympics were revealed exactly 48 hours before players will take the court at Ariake Tennis Park, which starts on Saturday. Top-seeded Novak Djokovic will open against No.

The first-round ties for Tokyo Olympics were revealed exactly 48 hours before players will take the court at Ariake Tennis Park, which starts on Saturday. Top-seeded Novak Djokovic will open against No.139 Hugo Dellien of Bolivia. The World No.1 is endeavoring to become the first man to finish a Golden Slam by winning every one of the four significant tennis competitions and an Olympic singles gold medal in the same year. Novak Djokovic won Wimbledon and won his 20th Grand Slam title, subsequent to opening the year by winning the Australian Open and French Open. ALSO READ: Director of Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony ousted over past comments on Holocaust Top-seeded Ashleigh Barty, the newly delegated Wimbledon women's champion will make her Olympic debut for Australia against Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain. She will additionally be playing doubles with Storm Sanders. Naomi Osaka's first match in almost two months will come against 52nd-positioned Zheng Saisai of China in the opening round of the Olympic tennis competition. The second-seeded Osaka, who represents Japan and is one of the top names at the Games, is getting back to rivalry after she walked out of the French Open after being fined and threatened with disqualification for refusing to attend mandatory post-match press conferences over mental health issues. Defending champion Olympic hero Andy Murray got an extreme opener against fifteenth-positioned Felix Auger Aliassime of Canada, who is seeded 10th. We're set. The #Tokyo2020 tennis draws in full 👇 — ITF (@ITFTennis) July 22, 2021 × Second-seeded Daniil Medvedev opens against Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan and third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas meets Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany. Also, the two singles draws have created a line of captivating first-round matches, including a mouth-watering opener between defending bronze medallist Kei Nishikori and Andrey Rublev, Carla Suarez Navarro's starting against Tunisia's Ons Jabeur, and Wimbledon finalist Hubert Hurkacz taking on Hungary's Marton Fucsovics to name a few.

All you need to know about Tokyo Olympics tennis draws. Novak Djokovic to start against Hugo Dellien

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas.&nbsp;

Addressing a German magazine,&nbsp;Zverev said he has loved playing under the German flag and that he would gun for glory in Tokyo. He trusts he is one of the top picks to win the gold medal in the men's singles event.&nbsp;

"I have already said several times that I am going to Tokyo in order to get a medal for Germany. It does not mean at all that I am going to win, but it is true that I see myself as the one of the favorites for the gold medal," said Zverev.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Tokyo Olympics 2020: Two Olympic athletes test positive for COVID-19, say organisers">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Two Olympic athletes test positive for COVID-19, say organisers</a>

He said the support he will receive from fans back in Germany will make playing at the Olympics a special memory.&nbsp;

"I love Germany. I always very, very much like to play for my country. It’s even more emotional when you know that everyone is cheering at home," he added.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old sees himself 'as someone who always has a chance against the World No.1 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic is a top choice to win the Olympic gold medal, having won the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this year. But, according to Zverev, playing aggressive tennis will be the way to beat the favourite at the Olympics.&nbsp;

"To defeat a player like Djokovic you have to do things that very few players can do. You have to outrun Nole and dominate him. I see myself as someone who may have a chance to beat him. If you play like him, you will lose. You have to play at a high level and hope that he is not successful that day," he said.

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas. Addressing a German magazine, Zverev said he has loved playing under the German flag and that he would gun for glory in Tokyo. He trusts he is one of the top picks to win the gold medal in the men's singles event. "I have already said several times that I am going to Tokyo in order to get a medal for Germany. It does not mean at all that I am going to win, but it is true that I see myself as the one of the favorites for the gold medal," said Zverev. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Two Olympic athletes test positive for COVID-19, say organisers He said the support he will receive from fans back in Germany will make playing at the Olympics a special memory. "I love Germany. I always very, very much like to play for my country. It’s even more emotional when you know that everyone is cheering at home," he added. The 24-year-old sees himself 'as someone who always has a chance against the World No.1 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. Novak Djokovic is a top choice to win the Olympic gold medal, having won the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this year. But, according to Zverev, playing aggressive tennis will be the way to beat the favourite at the Olympics. "To defeat a player like Djokovic you have to do things that very few players can do. You have to outrun Nole and dominate him. I see myself as someone who may have a chance to beat him. If you play like him, you will lose. You have to play at a high level and hope that he is not successful that day," he said.

Tokyo Olympics: 'I see myself as one of the favourites for gold medal', says tennis star Alexander Zverev

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic arrived at the Tokyo Olympics confident of his successes this season.

The Serbian ace&nbsp;underlined that it will not be easy, but sounded certain of his shots at winning the gold medal.&nbsp;

Djokovic, who won his 6th title at Wimbledon and a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title, in general, is the top pick to win the men's singles in Tokyo.&nbsp;

Addressing reporters, Djokovic said it is an "honour" for him to represent his country at the Olympics. He accepted that the numerous successes added to his repertoire this year should place him in an advantageous position in the Japanese capital.&nbsp;

“The schedule is really rough, but I feel that my preparations were good. Also, I won a lot of matches recently, which always gives you extra confidence and energy boost. Playing for my country, it is the highest honour and privilege for me," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/amid-coronavirus-crisis-tokyo-2020-chief-does-not-rule-out-cancellation-of-olympics-399237" hreflang="en">Amid coronavirus crisis, Tokyo 2020 chief does not rule out cancellation of Olympics</a>

Djokovic has won the ATP Cup and the Davis Cup in earlier years and has now focused on getting a gold medal for Serbia at the Olympics.&nbsp;

"I am an individual athlete, rarely we have the occasion to be a team. I am grateful because we were able to win the ATP Cup and Davis Cup, and I am missing Olympic gold now. I have the highest ambitions in Tokyo, it is not a secret that I am aiming for the gold medal,” he added.

Djokovic&nbsp;highlighted that he never made it to the men's singles final in three editions of the Olympic Games.&nbsp;

He noted that the Olympics is a long competition where 'anything' can happen.&nbsp;

“Although some players from the top are not coming, there are also a lot of elite players fighting for medals: Medvedev, Tsitsipas, and Zverev are among the favorites. They are the best, but it is a long tournament, and anything can happen," he said.

Djokovic said that although the Olympics is unique in relation to different competitions, he would approach the opposition as he would some other competition.&nbsp;

“Furthermore, Olympics are specific in terms of pressure, expectations and emotions &nbsp;everything is different compared to other tournaments and I know that very well, I felt it on my own skin in the past. Therefore, I will try to approach the Olympics in the same way that I approach other tournaments, so that I can stay focused on my goal,” he concluded.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic arrived at the Tokyo Olympics confident of his successes this season. The Serbian ace underlined that it will not be easy, but sounded certain of his shots at winning the gold medal.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic arrived at the Tokyo Olympics confident of his successes this season. The Serbian ace underlined that it will not be easy, but sounded certain of his shots at winning the gold medal. Djokovic, who won his 6th title at Wimbledon and a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title, in general, is the top pick to win the men's singles in Tokyo. Addressing reporters, Djokovic said it is an "honour" for him to represent his country at the Olympics. He accepted that the numerous successes added to his repertoire this year should place him in an advantageous position in the Japanese capital. “The schedule is really rough, but I feel that my preparations were good. Also, I won a lot of matches recently, which always gives you extra confidence and energy boost. Playing for my country, it is the highest honour and privilege for me," he said. ALSO READ: Amid coronavirus crisis, Tokyo 2020 chief does not rule out cancellation of Olympics Djokovic has won the ATP Cup and the Davis Cup in earlier years and has now focused on getting a gold medal for Serbia at the Olympics. "I am an individual athlete, rarely we have the occasion to be a team. I am grateful because we were able to win the ATP Cup and Davis Cup, and I am missing Olympic gold now. I have the highest ambitions in Tokyo, it is not a secret that I am aiming for the gold medal,” he added. Djokovic highlighted that he never made it to the men's singles final in three editions of the Olympic Games. He noted that the Olympics is a long competition where 'anything' can happen. “Although some players from the top are not coming, there are also a lot of elite players fighting for medals: Medvedev, Tsitsipas, and Zverev are among the favorites. They are the best, but it is a long tournament, and anything can happen," he said. Djokovic said that although the Olympics is unique in relation to different competitions, he would approach the opposition as he would some other competition. “Furthermore, Olympics are specific in terms of pressure, expectations and emotions everything is different compared to other tournaments and I know that very well, I felt it on my own skin in the past. Therefore, I will try to approach the Olympics in the same way that I approach other tournaments, so that I can stay focused on my goal,” he concluded.

Tokyo Olympics: It is not secret that I'm aiming for gold at Tokyo Olympics, says Novak Djokovic

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