Djokovic propels Serbia into Davis Cup quarters
REUTERS – Novak Djokovic made a winning return to action following his U.S. Open triumph, as the world number one helped Serbia book their place in the quarter-finals of the Davis Cup on Friday with a group stage victory over hosts Spain. Playing just five days after lifting his 24th Grand Slam title in New York, Djokovic overcame the hot and humid conditions early on and recovered from 4-1 down in the second set to beat Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 6-3 6-4 in Valencia.
The result secured an unassailable 2-0 lead for Serbia after Laslo Djere beat Albert Ramos-Vinolas 6-4 6-4 in the first match of the Group C tie and secured a tie in the last eight in Malaga, which will take place in November.
"I was on a high with the U.S. Open win and the celebration at home and leaving my family is never easy but coming to another family – my Serbian squad – gives me the greatest of joy," Djokovic said.