‘I was on the back foot’ – Novak Djokovic made to work for US Open quarterfinal spot

Novak Djokovic admitted it took him nearly two sets to get the measure of American youngster Jenson Brooksby at the US Open.

Djokovic won their last-16 clash 1-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2, although he was initially taken unawares by the buzzing Brooksby.

The American won the first set and at a canter, but the battle lines were ultimately drawn in the second set when two marathon games, one 20 minutes long, appeared to affect a momentum shift in Djokovic’s favour.

“[The atmosphere was] electric, awesome,” Djokovic said on court after the match.

“I enjoyed it. It gives both players energy and motivation to showcase.

“Brooksby has a bright future. I told him that at the net. He’s a great player

“I must say that it wasn’t a great start for me. Jenson was pumped he had a clear game plan, and was executing all the shots. I was on the back foot and he was reading the play.

“The momentum was changed midway second set. We played two long games. After that I started hitting more cleanly and through the court. I found my serves well.

“It was a physical battle with exhausting rallies. Credit to him.

“He played a perfect first set. I couldn’t do much. He disguises drop shots and slices so well. He’s talented, so crafty, a very intelligent player, no doubt about it.