Novak Djokovic greeted with thunderous cheers at US Open as he returns to Arthur Ashe Stadium for first time in 2 years

Novak Djokovic's long-awaited return to Arthur Ashe Stadium, for the first time since his loss in the 2021 US Open final, was met with thunderous applause from the New York crowd.

In 2022, Djokovic was denied participation in the US Open due to his unvaccinated status. However, the US government's COVID-19 vaccination requirement for foreigners was brought to an end in May 2023.

That gave Djokovic the opportunity to compete in the Cincinnati Open, where he defeated Carlos Alcaraz 5-7, 7-6(7), 7-6(4) in the final to clinch his 39th Masters title. The World No. 2 has now made a return to the US Open after being absent from the event last year.

Djokovic last participated at the US Open in 2021, a year in which he had already won the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon. With these victories under his belt, the former World No. 1 was aiming to complete a Calender Slam by winning the title at Flushing Meadows.

Djokovic reached the final of the US Open too, where he faced Daniil Medvedev. However, the Russian proved to be a formidable adversary, dominating the match and ultimately securing a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 victory.

For the first time since that US Open defeat, Djokovic graced Arthur Ashe Stadium on Wednesday. He received an electrifying welcome from the crowd, who showered him with resounding cheers and support.

Watch the clip below:

The 23-time Grand Slam champion also took some time out to sign match memorabilia brought in by the fans.

Watch the clip below:

"Novak Djokovic is even stronger when he competes against adversity" - Marion Bartoli

Western & Southern Open - Day 6

Former World No. 7 Marion Bartoli believes Novak Djokovic truly demonstrates his exceptional prowess when confronted with a challenge.

Bartoli recently highlighted the Serb's remarkable ability to assert his dominance in the face of adverse match situations. She even claimed that Djokovic thrives in unfavorable circumstances and prefers to play in them.

"I just have the feeling that Novak always improves and is even stronger when he competes against adversity. He likes it against them to play and compete," Marion Bartoli said in an interview with Tennis 365 .

Marion Bartoli also predicted that Djokovic will surpass all other players in history and retire with the highest number of Grand Slam wins.

Djokovic clinched his 23rd Grand Slam title at this year's French Open. He also reached the Wimbledon finals but fell short against World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz.

"I think when he ends his career, he will most likely be the one with the most Grand Slam wins and also the one who has achieved everything else," Marion Bartoli said.