• US Open, Day Two

Djokovic races to win over Lorenzi

ESPN staff
August 28, 2012
Novak Djokovic sets himself for a volley © Getty Images
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Novak Djokovic made the ideal start to the defence of his US Open title with a silk-smooth win over Paolo Lorenzi.

Djokovic is not in the same form as 12 months ago and was crushed by Roger Federer in Cincinnati recently, but Federer claims the defending champion is still the favourite and judged on his 6-1 6-0 6-1 won over Lorenzi that might not be a bad suggestion.

Far tougher tasks will lie ahead, with Lorenzi extending his losing run at grand slams to eight games, but the world No. 2 hit the ball crisply, moved well and looked well capable of stepping things up if required.

Lorenzi arrived at Flushing Meadows at a career-high ranking of 67 and with his confidence seemingly high, he struck an early blow by breaking Djokovic in the opening game of the match - getting the better of the Serb in a punishing rally.

But that was the high spot for Lorenzi as Djokovic roared back to win 12 games on the spin to take a two-set lead.

Some of Djokovic's play was stunning with brilliant winners from the baseline showing off his power and timing, but he was given a helping hand by his opponent who hit a horrid smash into the net and followed it up with an air shot.

Lorenzi stopped the rot at the start of the third, aided by Djokovic proving he is human by missing a simple volley, but it did not signal a shift in momentum as the champion powered on to book his place in the second round.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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