Novak Djokovic is leaning heavily into his mental strength and strategies as he tries to keep his mind clear while chasing the calendar-year Grand Slam.
The world No.1 began his US Open campaign with a four-set win over gallant teenaged qualifier Holger Rune, who struggled with severe cramps in the third and fourth sets.
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Djokovic’s 6-1 6-7(5) 6-2 6-1 victory at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Tuesday night was his 22nd straight Grand Slam match win.
Earlier in 2021, Djokovic won the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon titles, positioning himself to become the first man in more than 50 years to win all four major tournaments in a calendar year.
The 34-year-old Serb is very much aware of the scale of his potential achievement.
But he revealed that he is inspired by the challenge and has strategies at the ready should the occasion become overwhelming.
“I guess as always you have tons of expectations and pressure from just the whole tennis community, including myself,” Djokovic said when asked to name his biggest obstacle, not including his opponents, at the US Open.
“Obviously I would like myself to win, to go far, to win the title and make the history. Without a doubt that's something that inspires me.
“But I am focused on trying to be the best version of myself every day. I know it sounds like a cliché, but there is a great power in being present and working on mentally and emotionally being in the moment and trying to handle it in such way that would benefit you.
“Every time I lose that concentration and focus, I try to bounce back and bring my attention back to the moment, which I think conscious breathing helps a lot. That's one very, very simple way to stay present.
“I do have a formula for many years that has worked well for me, that got me to where I am. At the same time, it's not necessarily a guarantee that it will work every single time.”
Djokovic is not only playing for the holy grail of a Grand Slam, but also a men’s record 21st major singles title, which would elevate him above legendary rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, who both own 20.
Tuesday night marked Djokovic’s first match in a month; he had not competed since losing the bronze medal play-off to Pablo Carreno Busta at the Tokyo Olympics.
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And he was forced to overcome an inspired opponent in 18-year-old Rune, who got the crowd firmly on his side during an entertaining second set.
“Obviously you always wish to have crowd behind you, but it's not always possible,” said Djokovic, who next faces Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor.
“I've been focusing on myself and what I need to do. I guess I have to just see how it feels on the court and try to keep it together. That's all I can do.
Much respect to Holger. We’ll see you back here again my friend I’m sure of it ? @usopen #USOpen
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) September 1, 2021
?: Sarah Stier pic.twitter.com/ZLLybr42jf
“It's tough to talk about third and fourth set because he barely moved. (But from) my side, I started great. Played a really, really good first set. After that, I was 4-3 serving in the second set … then I just lost the first serve. Credit to him for fighting.
“It was tough to play in my first match, even though I had till tonight tons of experience playing on this court. Still you get nerves. You still are feeling a little bit rusty at the beginning.
“Obviously I'm pleased with the way I finished the match.”