Novak Djokovic makes joke about 'threats' after storming Alexandre Muller US Open win
Novak Djokovic has opened up after hammering Alexandre Muller at the US Open
REUTERS
Novak Djokovic has opened up on his impersonations of other tennis players following his US Open win over Alexandre Muller on Monday.
The Serb, who is playing at the competition for the first time in two years, easily stormed past his French opponent with a 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 victory.
Prior to the match, Djokovic had entertained fans by impersonating other players during a practice match.
The 36-year-old, who has now regained the world No 1 ranking from Carlos Alcaraz, amused spectators by mimicking his rivals on the tour.
Alexandre Muller was beaten by Novak Djokovic at the US Open on Monday
REUTERS
And Djokovic, when quizzed on his act after his win over Muller, revealed he was prepared to keep doing them because he hadn't received any 'threats' as part of a backlash.
"It's a little bit outdated you know, I guess I have to work on them," he stated.
"I haven't done impersonations in quite a few years.
"Actually, the first time I've done it kind of on a big stage was here in front of you guys, 2006 or 2007.
"And the response was good from the crowd, from the players not so much."
He continued: "But yeah, I haven't had any threats yet in the locker room [for] what I've done [a] few days ago, so I might do another practice session with some impersonations."
Djokovic also proceeded to say that he had no issue with US Open matches being played into the night.
The Serb added: "Yeah, you're right. [The match] started quite late, obviously.
"There was a ceremony between matches and I knew that I might have a late start.
"But nevertheless, you know, I was excited to go out on the court, it has been a couple of years.
"Thanks for coming out. Thanks also for all the people who stayed, [it is] almost 1.
"I appreciate your presence this late. Children should go to sleep but adults, you can stay, thanks a lot.
"Night sessions on Arthur Ashe are always something very special."
Djokovic thinks he has more to give at the US Open, too, having been forced to battle his way past Muller at times.
"I couldn't serve well in the second and third, I dropped the level of my serve and had to work for my points a bit more," said the 23-time Grand Slam winner.
"Nevertheless I think I played great from the beginning to the end.
"Some hiccups but I liked the level and hopefully I can maintain it in the next round as well."
Djokovic will now go up against Bernabe Zapata Miralles in the second round of the tournament.
The Spaniard secured his own win with a 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 victory over American Ethan Quinn.
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Novak Djokovic is playing at the US Open for the first time since 2021
PA
Djokovic and Zapata Miralles have never facxed off before, though the new world No 1 will be the strong favourite to reign supreme.
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