Djokovic Begins US Open Campaign After Cincinnati Exit

Novak Djokovic began his campaign at the 2026 US Open on August 30, seeking a record 25th Grand Slam singles title after an early exit from the Cincinnati Open gave him an extended preparation period. The 39-year-old Serbian, a four-time champion in New York, acknowledged that while he dislikes early losses, the time off allowed him to train specifically for the demands of the final major of the season. Djokovic lost his opening match at the Cincinnati Open to Argentina's Thiago Agustin Tirante on August 16, a defeat compounded by physical struggles in the heat that included vomiting on court.