Novak Djokovic enjoys a unique position in men's tennis. The Serb is one of only a handful of players to have won a Grand Slam in the Roger Federer/Rafael Nadal era. His 2008 Australian Open success aside, Djokovic has watched his 'best of the rest' status eclipsed in recent months, as Andy Murray maintains his attack on Nadal's world No 2 slot. However, Flushing Meadows is fitting for Djokovic's own fightback. The US Open hard-courts have been mostly kind to him. On a surface he clearly likes, only Federer from the world's top 10 - in the 2007 final and last year's semis - has stopped Djokovic. And the Swiss No 1, should he get past Robin Soderling in his own quarter-final, awaits again.
Before Djokovic's thoughts turn to a mouth-watering rematch, he must overcome in-form Spanish 10th seed Fernando Verdasco. "I think Fernando's been playing the tennis of his life," said Djokovic. "He reached the semis of the Australian Open and he is physically much stronger. He is fit and believes he can beat the other top players." Djokovic warmed up for tonight's encounter with a simple 6-1 6-3 6-3 dismantling of Czech Radek Stepanek.
He then showed his less-than-serious side with an impromptu exhibition game against American legend John McEnroe - who stepped down from the commentary box - much to the delight of the Arthur Ashe Stadium gallery. It represented a sharp U-turn in Djokovic's standing with New Yorkers. After all, it is only 12 months since he incurred their wrath for eliminating home favourite Andy Roddick. "New York is a big place and there have been many big matches here at night," said Djokovic. "It's a privilege for me to play at night. I hope I have more chances to do it."
Indeed, wooing the court's 23,000 spectators is certainly on Djokovic's mind this year, and McEnroe provided him with a unique opportunity to do so. "It actually was quite funny and the crowd loved it. I like to entertain the crowd - that makes me happy as well." The prospect of facing Federer again will probably subdue the Serb's smile. emegson@thenational.ae
