Now hear this: Novak Djokovic is playing in his 100th match at Wimbledon
Having been absent from Flushing Meadows for the past two years, Djokovic faced France's Alexandre Muller in his opening match. AFP News

The US Open 2023 kicked off at Flushing Meadows with a day full of exhilarating tennis action, showcasing the return of some big names and the rise of newcomers.

Novak Djokovic, former world number one and multiple Grand Slam champion, marked his return to the tournament after a two-year hiatus with a powerful statement.

Meanwhile, the women's draw saw the comeback of Caroline Wozniacki, who demonstrated her prowess on the court once again.

Djokovic's Commanding Return

Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic made his presence felt as he breezed past France's Alexandre Muller in a commanding 6-0, 6-2 and 6-3 victory. Djokovic's return to the US Open was met with anticipation, and he did not disappoint. The victory not only advanced him to the second round but also ensured his return to the world's number-one ranking after the tournament.

Reflecting on his performance, Djokovic expressed his joy, stating: "It was a great joy to be stepping out on the court. Overall, I'm very pleased with the way I'm playing. Hopefully, I can maintain that level."

Wozniacki's Remarkable Return

Caroline Wozniacki, the former world number one and two-time US Open finalist, showcased her resilience and skill in her victory over Tatiana Prozorova. The Danish player, who had been away from competitive tennis for over three years, triumphed with a convincing 6-3, 6-2 win.

Wozniacki's return to the Grand Slam stage was met with applause, and she now faces Petra Kvitova in the second round.

Thrilling Matches and Upsets

The first day of the US Open also witnessed some thrilling matches and unexpected upsets. Young talent Coco Gauff, the sixth seed, displayed her fighting spirit as she battled back from a set down to secure a 3-6, 6-2 and 6-4 victory against Germany's Laura Siegemund.

American Mackenzie McDonald stunned 15th seed Felix Auger-Aliassime in a marathon match that lasted over three hours, ending 7-6(5), 4-6, 6-1 and 6-4 in favour of McDonald.

Greek seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas showcased his dominance by steamrolling past Canadian Milos Raonic in straight sets, clinching a 6-2, 6-3 and 6-4 victory. The women's draw witnessed Spain's Rebeka Masarova delivering a surprise by ousting eighth seed Maria Sakkari with a 6-4, 6-4 win.

British Representation

On the British front, the opening day saw both positive and challenging results. British qualifier Lily Miyazaki made a significant impact on her US Open debut by winning her first-ever Grand Slam match.

Miyazaki's impressive performance earned her a spot in the second round, where she is set to face Olympic champion Belinda Bencic. While the path ahead may not be easy, Miyazaki's accomplishment marks a milestone in her career.

Andy Murray, the British tennis icon, returned to the US Open determined to make his mark. Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, acknowledged the disappointment he faced after his early exit at Wimbledon but showed his resilience and commitment to improvement.

He entered the tournament with renewed focus and secured a victory in the first round, setting the tone for his campaign.

In the women's division, Katie Boulter and Jodie Burrage joined the action, aiming to emulate the success of Lily Miyazaki. Boulter's rise to a career-high ranking added to the excitement of the British contingent at the US Open.

Anticipation Builds

As the first day of the US Open unfolded with riveting matches, upsets, and triumphant returns, the stage was set for an exhilarating tournament. With Djokovic's dominant return and Wozniacki's resurgence, the field is wide open for unexpected twists and turns in the days to come.

As the temperature hovered around 23°C (73°F), the atmosphere was perfect for tennis enthusiasts to witness remarkable displays of skill and determination on the court.

The US Open 2023 promises to be a tournament filled with unforgettable moments, as veterans and rising stars collide in pursuit of tennis glory. With each match, the stakes grow higher, and fans around the world eagerly await the next chapter in this captivating Grand Slam journey.

Stay tuned for more updates and thrilling tennis action as the tournament continues to unfold at Flushing Meadows.

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Andy Murray Novak Djokovic