Novak Djokovic clinches return to No. 1 ranking with first-round win at US Open

NEW YORK—Novak Djokovic is assured of extending at least one record of tennis excellence in two weeks' time.

The 36-year-old, who has spent 389 weeks atop the ATP world rankings over the course of his career, clinched a return to the sport's apex with his 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 first-round win over Alexandre Muller at the US Open.

Coupling that achievement with a record-extending 24th Grand Slam singles title is the larger goal, but in a line of work where most players purport to take things "one match at a time," Djokovic's focus on the here and now was rewarded immediately. (Even if that reward is deferred.)

The Serbian first earned the No. 1 ranking in 2011, one of a record seven seasons he's finished atop the tour. His longest stretch at No. 1 lasted 122 weeks; only Ivan Lendl (157 weeks) Jimmy Connors (160 weeks) and Roger Federer (237 weeks) have held the untoppled ranking uninterrupted for greater periods of time.

Monday night's match, which didn't end until nearly 1 a.m. Tuesday morning, was Djokovic's first US Open contest since losing the 2021 final to Daniil Medvedev. Had Djokovic won, he would have completed a calendar-year Grand Slam.

"I started tremendously well off the blocks," said Djokovic, who cooked up his 46th bagel set at the majors, tying a mark set by Roger Federer. (Only Andre Agassi has more.)

It was also Djokovic's 35th career night-match win in Arthur Ashe Stadium.

"Thanks also for all the people who stayed," Djokovic said. "I appreciate your presence this late."