Djokovic Advances Despite Foot Injury as Medvedev Exits US Open

Novak Djokovic won his first-round match at the US Open against Learner Tien but struggled physically due to a severe blister on his foot, which he described as 'slightly a concern' despite no formal injury diagnosis. Djokovic admitted his performance dipped in the second set because of physical discomfort and long exchanges, but he remains hopeful that the upcoming days off will aid his recovery before facing Zachary Svajda in the second round. Meanwhile, the tournament was marked by chaos when Daniil Medvedev lost his first-round match to Benjamin Bonzi amid a heated dispute with the umpire and disruptive crowd behavior, including a six-minute delay caused by fans booing and chanting during a critical point. Medvedev's frustration stemmed from a photographer entering the court prematurely, resulting in a controversial decision to allow Bonzi a first serve on match point, which Medvedev contested vocally. Despite Medvedev's 21 aces, Bonzi prevailed in a five-set thriller, capitalizing on Medvedev's missed opportunities and the chaotic atmosphere. World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and Djokovic advanced to the second round without similar incidents, benefiting from the tournament's new extended 15-day format that spreads out matches and increases spectator access.