‘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.
Latest
-
Australian Open
John McEnroe enters the debate on Novak Djokovic’s hamstring injury
Tennis legend John McEnroe has admitted he is confused by Novak Djokovic’s hamstring problem at the Australian Open.
-
Grand Slam
Jelena Dokic blasts body-shaming trolls over offensive social media commentary
Jelena Dokic takes a stand against trolls.
-
Australian Open
Victoria Azarenka confesses Australian Open controversy has taken a decade to overcome
The Belarusian defeated Jessica Pegula 6-4 6-1 to reach the semi-finals again.
-
Australian Open
Jessica Pegula has no time to cry as she bids for doubles glory
Jessica Pegula turns her attention to teaming with Coco Gauff in pursuit of doubles glory.
-
News
Australian Open day nine wrap: Stefanos Tsitsipas tees up Karen Khachanov showdown
The story of the ninth day of action from Melbourne Park.
-
Australian Open
Stefanos Tsitsipas continues clutch run at the Australian Open
Stefanos Tsitsipas had to play his heart out to continue his Australian Open run.
-
Australian Open
Who is Stefanos Tsitsipas’ girlfriend Theodora Petalas?
Theodora Petalas and Stefanos Tsitsipas fell in love quickly after meeting in New York.
-
Tennis News
‘Soccer mom’ Victoria Azarenka on her love for PSG ‘since the Beckham days’ and her son’s football dreams
What is the story behind Victoria Azarenka’s support for PSG?
-
Australian Open
Victoria Azarenka plays lights out tennis to beat Jessica Pegula – ‘I knew from the first point I had to bring it’
Victoria Azarenka sets up Elena Rybakina semi-final at Australian Open.
-
Australian Open
Azerbaijan tennis chiefs demand action against Karen Khachanov over ‘provocative’ messages
The Russian, who is of Armenian heritage, has written messages on the camera lens.