Novak Djokovic was crowned King of Arthur Ashe after his victory in the first round of the US Open.
The four-time champion defeated Radu Albot in straight sets to claim his record-breaking 78th victory on the main show court at Flushing Meadows.
With his 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 victory over the qualifier, he also drew level with Roger Federer, who has 89 wins at the US Open.
He said: “To be honest, I wasn’t aware of that. It’s the biggest stadium and definitely the loudest in the history of our sport.”
“The night sessions are the best in the world at Arthur Ashe and since the roof was added it has become even louder. Electrifying atmosphere. Incredible energy.”
“There is obviously a lot going on on the pitch due to the new rules this year and the ability for spectators to move around freely.
“We just measured midnight. I love night sessions, maybe not that late but it was still a lot of fun.
“I wanted to start the tournament in the right way and I think I succeeded.”
Dominic Thiem’s Grand Slam career is over after his defeat in the first round of the US Open against American Ben Shelton.
The 30-year-old will end his career after his home tournament in Vienna in October and was given a red carpet welcome at Flushing Meadows, the venue for his only Grand Slam victory in 2020.
Thiem received a wildcard and the honor of opening the Arthur Ashe tournament on the first day of the tournament, but succumbed to a 6-4, 6-2, 6-2 defeat to 13th-seeded American Ben Shelton.
The Austrian, who has been plagued by injuries in recent years, said he was “happy” about his retirement and was looking forward to life after tennis.
“I’ve had enough to struggle with in recent years, especially because I haven’t been able to get back to my level,” he said.
“But after I made the decision in March this year, I was happy about it from that moment on.
“Of course, I was also able to prepare myself for this new chapter that will soon begin.
“I’ve always loved playing on tour and I’ve been very patient while doing it, but honestly I’ve always really enjoyed being at home and living a normal life as much as possible.
“And that’s why I’m really looking forward to normal life returning.
“That’s why I think it’s not that difficult for me and that’s why I’m really happy with my decision.”
On the opening day in New York, there were victories for fourth-seeded Alexander Zverev, former Wimbledon runner-up Matteo Berrettini and eighth-seeded Casper Ruud.
The biggest loss of the day was suffered by Holger Rune, who fell against the American Brandon Nakashima.
The 15th seed won just seven games as Nakashima recorded a 6-2, 6-1 and 6-4 victory.
