US Open LIVE: Novak Djokovic encounters problem as player receives ‘death threats’
Carlina Garcia and Nick Kyrgios. (Image: Getty)
Day four of the US Open is already upon us and the two defending champions have continued their progress in New York. Overnight, Novak Djokovic was leading Laslo Djere 6-4 6-4 2-0 when an abdominal issue forced his compatriot to retire.
Coco Gauff also sailed through, beating Germany’s Tatjana Maria 6-0 6-0. But there was heartbreak for Britian’s Harriet Dart, wholost to Ukrainian 19th seed Marta Kostyuk.
The British No.3, aiming to reach the third round for the first time in her career, was way below her best as a series of unforced errors signified her 7-6 (12-10) 6-1 defeat. In sweltering heat, the 28-year-old cut a disconsolate figure afterwards.
The last three remaining British singles players, Katie Boulter, Jack Draper and Dan Evans are all in action today. With play starting at 4pm UK time, Katie Boulter takes on Spanish world No.74 Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the second match.
Jack Draper then faces Argentine world No.64. Facundo Diaz Acosta. And ffter winning the longest match in US Open history in the first round, Dan Evans will then play the last match of the day against Argentine world No.36 Mariano Navone.
The two top seeds meanwhile, Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek, are also playing in the day session in the Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Rune hits back at critics
Holger Rune has taken to social media to issue an emotional riposte to his critics. After his shock first round US Open loss to the unseeded Brandon Nakashima, he wrote: “I am not satisfied with my results, but still I have to remember I am 21, I am top 15 in the world, the highest ranked male ever in my county.
“So when media ‘experts’ and randoms call me s**t, I take it as a bizarre compliment. They are expecting more from me, and faster.”
Djokovic hails special fan
Novak Djokovic has rewarded acloyal supporter after the fan travelled to support him at the US Open. During his win over compatriot Laslo Djere, a man was seen sporting a ‘World against No1e’ t-shirt.
In his post-match press conference, Djokovic said: “I’ve seen him around. I don’t know him personally but I’m grateful for his support.
“He seems to be coming by himself and is producing some interesting designs on his shirts. So I signed a couple of his shirts and thanked him for his support.”
Tearful Azarenka wins through
Three-time US Open finalist Victoria Azarenka overcame a migraine to beat Clara Burel and make the third round of the US Open.
The star was in tears after winning 6-1 6-4 victory in one hour, saying: “It’s very tough to be out here. I don’t know how I played the match. I just tried to hope that it was going to get better.
“I have a chronic migraine sometimes. It couldn’t be a worse time to start in the match. It’s tough to deal with.”
Djokovic makes more history
US Open chiefs have congratulated Novak Djokovic after the Serbian smashed another record at the US Open.
His victory overnight made him the first player in history to win 90 matches in all four Slam events. Tournament organisers took to social media to hail the feat of the 37-year-old, posting ‘More history made’.
Gauff has ‘nothing to lose’ after win
Defending champion Coco Gauff has confidently told Nick Kyrgios she has “nothing to lose” in her bid to retain her US Open crown.
After overcoming Tatjana Maria 6-3 6-0 on Wednesday night, she said “Last year I felt more pressure.
“Stepping on the court now I have really nothing to lose. I’m 20 years old. I have one under my belt. I have the potential to do more whether it happens this year or in the future.”
Novak Djokovic has opened up on the problems with his serve after making the third round of the US Open. The Serbian was leading Laslo Djere 6-4 6-4 2-0 when his compatriot retired with injury.
Djokovic threw down eight double faults during the clash, with his first serve percentage down at just 47, and admitted afterwards: “I served awful. Playing without a serve, you have to grind and run.”
