Novak Djokovic takes on Mikhail Youzhny in the men's singles third round clash of the 2016 US Open on Friday (2 September).

Where to watch live

The match starts at 8pm BST. Live coverage of the game will be available in the UK on British Eurosport 1 & 2. Live scores and regular updates will be available on US Open's official website.

Overview

World number one Novak Djokovic comes into this clash after receiving a walkover in the second round, with his opponent Jiri Vesely withdrawing from the event. This unexpected withdrawal from Vesely would come as a relief for Djokovic, who would have more time to nurse his wrist, which has been giving him problems since the past couple of months.

There are concerns that the Serb is a little under cooked and rusty coming into this game, especially considering he has not had a good month in terms of results. The 29-year-old though is the defending champions is the favourite to go past Youzhny.

Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic is the current world number in the ATP rankings Getty

His opponent, Mikhail Youzhny comes into this clash full of confidence beating Guido Pella 6-2, 6-1, 7-6 and Martin Klizan 6-2, 6-1, 6-1 with the 34-year-old yet to drop a set so far in the tournament.

Ranked number 61 in the world, Youzhny has the talent to cause some issues, winning three games against Djokovic in the past. While those wins came long back, when arguably the Serb was not at the top of his game, it is still an indication that the Russian will be no pushover come 2 September at Flushing Meadows.

Betting odds (betfair)

  • Novak Djokovic to win: 1/14
  • Mikhail Youzhny to win: 8

Head-to-head

The duo have faced each other nine times in ATP tennis and Grand Slam history, with Djokovic winning six of those encounters. The last time they faced each other was in the quarter-final of the 2013 US Open with the Serb winning 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-0.

US Open history

Djokovic and Youzhny have faced each other once at the US Open in the past.

Novak Djokovic US Open New York