Melbourne, Australia – World No. 1 Novak Djokovic kicked off his 2024 Australian Open campaign with a hard-fought victory over qualifier Jeremy Chardy, setting his sights on a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title and a coveted spot on the U.S. Olympic team.
Djokovic, who has won the Australian Open a record 10 times, survived a grueling four-hour, four-set match against Chardy, 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-1, 6-2. The victory marked Djokovic’s 300th Grand Slam win and his 10th consecutive win at Melbourne Park.
“It’s always a great feeling to start the season with a win, especially here in Melbourne,” Djokovic said in his post-match press conference. “I’m thrilled to be back in the tournament and looking forward to the challenges ahead.”
Djokovic’s victory sets up a potential blockbuster showdown with second-seeded Carlos Alcaraz in the round of 16. Alcaraz, who won the US Open last year, defeated wild card Thanasi Kokkinakis in straight sets earlier in the day.
“I’m aware of the challenges that lie ahead, but I’m feeling confident and focused,” Djokovic said. “I’m looking forward to the next match and the opportunity to face some of the best players in the world.”
Djokovic’s victory also sets him up well for a spot on the U.S. Olympic team. The U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) has historically selected its Olympic team based on the ATP rankings, and Djokovic is currently ranked No. 1 in the world.
“It’s always a goal of mine to represent my country at the Olympics, and I’m hopeful that I can make the team this year,” Djokovic said. “I know there’s a lot of talented players in the field, but I’m confident that I have what it takes to make the team.”
Djokovic’s path to the Olympic team is not without its challenges, however. He will need to navigate a deep and talented field that includes reigning Olympic champion Alexander Zverev, 2022 US Open champion Daniil Medvedev, and rising star Holger Rune.
What is Djokovic’s record against Alcaraz?
Novak Djokovic, the world’s top-ranked men’s tennis player, has never faced Carlos Alcaraz, a rising Spanish star, in a professional match. Therefore, Djokovic does not have a record against Alcaraz.
Despite this lack of a head-to-head record, Djokovic has expressed admiration for Alcaraz’s talent and potential. In a recent interview, Djokovic called Alcaraz “a future star of the sport” and praised his “amazing athleticism and skill.”
Alcaraz, who is currently ranked 32nd in the world, has been making waves in the tennis world with his impressive play and upset victories over higher-ranked opponents. He has drawn comparisons to Djokovic for his strong baseline game and ability to adapt to different surfaces.
While Djokovic and Alcaraz have not yet faced each other in a professional match, their future encounters are sure to be highly anticipated and closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
