Another day, another Novak Djokovic record

Novak Djokovic, 37, is at a point in his career where he reaches a personal milestone or breaks a record every time he steps on a tennis court.

On Monday, the Serbian became the second-winningest men's player in U.S. Open history with a comfortable 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 first-round win over Moldova's Radu Albot, equaling Roger Federer's tally of 89 victories at Flushing Meadows.

With his 78th win at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Djokovic also broke the record for most victories at the most populous court in the sport. In typical Djokovic fashion, he was unaware of any of it.

"I wasn't aware of it, to be honest with you," Djokovic said. "It's the biggest stadium, definitely the loudest we have in the history of our sport. The night sessions are the best here at Arthur Ashe."

More history awaits Djokovic on Wednesday. If he can defeat fellow Serbian Laslo Djere in the second round, he'd become the first player to register 90 or more wins at all four majors — women included.

And of course, the most significant record would come if Djokovic survives the gauntlet over the next few weeks to claim his fifth U.S. Open crown. The win would officially make him the winningest player in tennis history, breaking the tie with Margaret Court , who clinched 24 majors between 1960 and 1971.

Djokovic's quest for major No. 25 has yet to come to fruition in 2024, with the Serbian falling short at the Australian Open (SF loss), French Open (injury withdrawal in QF) and Wimbledon (Finals loss). 2024 is the first calendar year since his injury-riddled 2017 that has yet to see him capture a major.

In some ways, Djokovic's battle for No. 25 is being fought on behalf of the old guard. Since 2002, one of Djokovic, Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal has won at least one major title each year. If the Serbian fails to win the U.S. Open, that incredible 22-year streak ends, and with it, the dawning of a new era.

If the Serbian completes the mission, he could hang up the racket. That's the prediction of an 18-time major winner , who feels Djokovic's recent Olympic gold-medal win pushed him closer to his tennis mortality.