Novak Djokovic has opened up on his current performance levels in the wake of reaching the third round of the 2025 US Open.
The four-time winner at Flushing Meadows recovered from a poor start to beat Zachary Svajda 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 6-3 6-1 on Wednesday (August 27) in the sunshine at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The second round contest was not the world no. 7's strongest showing as he committed 14 unforced errors in the opening set.
While the Serbian managed to eventually gain control of the match and pick up a victory, it is clear his performances are not quite where they need to be right now.
If the 38-year-old is to be considered a genuine contender for the men's singles title this year, then it is paramount that he raises his levels on the court.
It is possible that Djokovic is not feeling as sharp as he should be due to skipping the recent Masters 1000 events in Toronto and Cincinnati.
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What Djokovic had to say about his performance in the Big Apple
After taking care of business against Svajda, Djokovic spoke honestly about his form to the media.
"I'm not pleased with my level of tennis, but you have days like this where you're not playing at your best, but you just kind of find a way," he said at his post-match press conference.
The 24-time Grand Slam winner then responded to suggestions from a reporter that he was not enjoying himself out on the court in New York.
"It's just me a bit frustrated with my game. I kind of go through stuff internally. I'm just trying to be locked in, to solve the riddle once I'm on the court," Djokovic explained.
"I enjoy competing, but I don't enjoy not playing well. Today was a little bit of a struggle to find that rhythm," he added.
The Serbian will take on Cameron Norrie in the third round at Flushing Meadows after the Brit overcame a tricky contest against Francisco Comesana on Wednesday.
Djokovic has gotten the better of Norrie in the two matches between them this year, at the Geneva Open and Roland Garros, respectively.
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