Defending champion Novak Djokovic progressed to the third round of the US Open 2024 after his Serbian compatriot Laslo Djere was forced to retire due to injury. The match, held at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Thursday, August 29, saw Novak Djokovic winning the first two sets 6-4, 6-4 before Laslo Djere was compelled to withdraw midway through the third set.
Novak Djokovic, 37, faced a competitive challenge from Laslo Djere despite the latter’s injury struggles. Both players contended with the oppressive heat, with Novak Djokovic seen receiving treatment from his trainer, including abdominal massages and cooling aids, while Laslo Djere also required medical attention to cope with the conditions.
The first set was closely contested until Novak Djokovic managed to break Laslo Djere’s serve, clinching the set. Laslo Djere, 29, showed resilience and fought back in the second set, breaking Novak Djokovic’s serve in the third game. However, his progress was halted when he suffered a significant injury during the eighth game. Laslo Djere winced in pain after a serve, prompting him to take a medical timeout. He lay on the court while receiving treatment for his abdomen and lower back, but his physical condition continued to deteriorate.
Despite his injury, Laslo Djere attempted to keep up the fight. He was able to hold serve for a while but eventually succumbed to Novak Djokovic’s relentless pressure. Novak Djokovic capitalized on the opportunity, breaking Laslo Djere’s serve again to take the second set. In the third set, Novak Djokovic broke serve early to take a 2-0 lead. Laslo Djere, visibly frustrated, ultimately decided to retire from the match, shaking hands with Novak Djokovic and conceding the victory.
The crowd, which had been eagerly anticipating another high-stakes clash between the Serbian players, was left disappointed by the premature ending. Novak Djokovic’s victory advances him to the third round, where he will face Alexei Popyrin of Australia, who is seeded 28th. This match marks another step in Novak Djokovic’s quest to defend his US Open title and continue his successful run in the tournament.
