Novak Djokovic On-court Interview | 2023 US Open Round 1

Novak, you guys started a little late tonight, it seemed like you were in a hurry to finish this, what pleased you most about your game tonight? I think the first set, I mean, I started tremendously well off the blocks, um, yeah, you. I started well, quite late, obviously there was a ceremony between games and I knew I might have a late start, but still you know I was excited to get out on the

court

, it's been a couple of years and to get in. In front of you it is always a pleasure and an honor to play here at r2s so thank you for coming thank you also for all the people who stayed almost 1 am I appreciate your presence also so late and uh and these children should go to sleep but adults adults , you can stay, thank you very much, you know, the late night sessions at outrush are always something very special, we will talk about that first set, do you know how many bagels you have eaten in your career in the majors, enlighten me, I don't know? you know 46, now you're tied with Roger Federer only Andre has more than you, okay, this week's practice week we saw something we haven't seen in a long time, imitations, where has that been? um uh, it's a little outdated, you know, um, I guess I have to work on them.

I haven't made imitations for quite a few years. In fact, the first time I did it on a big stage was here in front of you in 2000, I think six or seven. and um the response was good from the crowd, from the players, not so much, but yeah, I haven't had any threats yet in the locker room from what I did a few days ago, so I might. Do another practice session with some imitations. I'm still trying to catch you, but it's hard to personify your bread. No, it would be easy enough. So how did you feel finishing this match tonight?

Well, um, I think. He could have served well at second and third. I lowered my serve and you know, I had to work a little harder to get my points, but still, I think I played very well from start to finish. Hiccup, but I like the level, you know, I hope I can maintain it. Also in the next round, okay, talk in the next round. Do you know who you will play in the next round? Do you check the draw? I haven't seen who the winner of the match is, so, you know, I'll do an analysis, Zappos Morales, the Spaniard, what are your impressions of that?

Yeah, I mean, he's a clay

court

specialist, but, again, you know, over the years, all these guys learn the game. play on hard courts so you know there are no easy opponents uh obviously you know I respect everyone I don't underestimate anyone and I try to do my best and I hope I can get another win in a few days put your feet up buddy, keep going. Djokovic is no longer a foreigner in the second round