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Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
Sport
Helene Elliott

Defending US Open champ Novak Djokovic cruises through first round

NEW YORK _ Before the U.S. Open began, top seed Novak Djokovic said winning more Grand Slam titles is his main focus at this stage of his career. He moved toward a 17th championship by dismissing Roberto Carballes Baena of Spain 6-4, 6-1, 6-4 in a first-round match Monday at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

"They matter the most in the history of our sport. And certainly motivate me the most," Djokovic, 32, said of the Slams. "Of course, I do value every tournament that I play in, especially the big ATP 1000 Masters events, try my best. These are the events where I want to perform my best."

Djokovic said it was "a solid performance" for an opener. "I'm hoping that I can build from here," he said. On Wednesday, he will face Juan Ignacio Londero of Argentina, who defeated American Sam Querrey 3-6, 6-1, 7-6 (3), 7-5. Djokovic and Londero have never faced each other.

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