Novak Djokovic had to battle the scorching hot temperatures in New York as he beat Marton Fucsovics 6-3 3-6 6-4 6-0 to reach the second round.
The recent Cincinnati Champion started strongly as he opened up the court nicely with his powerful backhand. The Serb’s defensive skills were proving two good as he raced into an early 3-0 lead. The fast rising Hungarian was looking dangerous as the match developed, with his big serve being the main focal point.
Despite many good opportunities to break the world number 41 just couldn’t get past a stubborn Djokovic as the Wimbledon champion held on to take the first set in 39 minutes.
However there was more cause for concern in the second set as the heat was playing a massive factor in the match. The Serb was also becoming frustrated at not breaking the Hungarian as he looked under the weather. The 13 time grand slam champion was also being checked by the trainer and doctors as he was on the verge of throwing up.
That didn’t phase the Hungarian as a break of serve seemed to inspire him as he levelled the match up at one set all with some inspirational tennis. The Serb was struggling with both the heat and his opponent’s forehand as the former world number one looked on the ropes.
The third set didn’t start any better from Djokovic’s point of view as he raced into an early break lead with some devastating shotmaking. The Hungarian had the momentum and could of easily had a 4-1 and double break advantage due to Djokovic’s lack of energy.
However the Serb held and it was now Fucsovics’ turn to call the doctor onto the court. The 26 year old was now feeling the effects and some stunning Djokovic play pulled the match back and levelled the set at 4-4.
The Serb’s energy levels had increased on a scorching day on Arthur Ashe and an insane point won by Djokovic saw him take a miraculous 2 sets to 1 lead. A roar followed for the Serb as he temporarily weathered the storm in an entertaining contest.
Djokovic SP(🎥Eurosport) pic.twitter.com/ya8hOm2hXt
— doublefault28 (@doublefault28) August 28, 2018
After that epic set point, Fucsovics had lost all his energy as his wait to win a US Open will continue. The Serb sealed a run of ten consecutive games to clinch the win and book his place into the second round.
A magnificent performance from the Wimbledon champion, who battled sickness, the heat and a determined Fucsovics to stay in New York for at least another day.
The Serb will now play Tennys Sandgren on Thursday after he beat another Serbian in Viktor Troicki in straight sets.
