Let’s be honest, when the draw came out, Novak Djokovic vs. Learner Tien looked like a formality. The 24-time Grand Slam champion against a promising 19-year-old qualifier? On paper, it was a masterclass in the making.
And for the first 20 minutes, it was. Djokovic came out swinging with that terrifying intensity we know so well, blitzing through the first set 6-1. It seemed like business as usual. But then, something shifted. The explosive movement was slightly muted. The grimaces began. Tien, to his immense credit, sensed an opportunity and pushed the second set to a tiebreak, playing with a fearlessness that reminded some veterans of a young Michael Chang.
During the set break, the mystery was solved. ESPN cameras zoomed in as a trainer worked on Djokovic’s right foot, revealing a nasty, angry blister on his big toe. It was one of those cringe-worthy moments that every athlete—and every fan—understands immediately. The smallest thing can derail the greatest.
Whatever magic was worked in that medical timeout worked. After dropping his serve to start the third set, a refocused Djokovic reeled off five straight games, closing the match 6-1, 7-6(3), 6-2.
In his post-match interview, the ever-professional Djokovic downplayed the drama. “I think it was key for me to really hold my nerves in the second set,” he said, crediting Tien’s fight. But the sight of that blister had everyone talking. With a new two-day break before his next match against Zachary Svajda, that extra 24 hours of recovery might be the tournament’s first major blessing for the Serbian star.
Learner Tien: A Name to Remember
While the spotlight was on Djokovic’s pain, the real story for American tennis was the performance of Learner Tien. The teenager didn’t just show up; he went toe-to-toe with a legend on one of the biggest stages in the sport. Pushing a set to a tiebreak against an injured Djokovic is one thing, but the composure and clean ball-striking he displayed throughout the match screamed of a bright future.
He may not have gotten the win, but he earned a world of respect. Remember the name Learner Tien.
Alexandra Eala Writes History for the Philippines
While the night session featured the main event, the afternoon delivered the true drama. In a match that will be replayed for years, unranked Alexandra Eala of the Philippines pulled off one of the most incredible comebacks in recent US Open memory.
Down 5-1 in the third set against the formidable 14th seed, Clara Tauson, all hope seemed lost. What followed was a display of pure heart. Eala clawed her way back, saving match points, forcing a tiebreak, and eventually sealing a monumental victory 3-6, 6-2, 7-6(11) after a breathtaking 13-11 tiebreak thriller.
The moment she won, Eala collapsed onto the court, hands covering her face in disbelief. The Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd, famous for embracing an underdog, erupted into a roaring standing ovation.
“I was just thinking to push the limit, physically, mentally,” an emotional Eala said afterward. “To be Filipino is something I take so much pride in… I’m always in the mood for creating more history.”
With that win, she did just that, becoming the first player from the Philippines to win a main draw match at a Grand Slam in the Open Era. It was a moment of national pride that transcended tennis.
Elsewhere on the Grounds
The day saw other smooth progressions. American hope Taylor Fritz cruised through his match, as did Ben Shelton, setting up an exciting home narrative. Over on the outer courts, the always-entertaining Alejandro Davidovich Fokina also advanced, though his path was typically filled with his signature brand of chaotic, thrilling tennis.
As the sun sets on Flushing Meadows, the narrative is set. It’s not just about who is playing the best tennis, but who can survive the aches, the pressures, and the surprises that the US Open always delivers. If Day 1 was any indication, we’re in for a wild ride.
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