Djokovic brushes Blake aside

Djokovic: clinical display

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Novak Djokovic produced a clinical display to see off James Blake in straight sets and move into the fourth round of the US Open.

The Serbian, runner-up at Flushing Meadows in 2007, looked in impressive form as he claimed a 6-1 7-6 6-3 triumph in blustery conditions.

Djokovic was taken to five sets by compatriot Viktor Troicki in his opening match in New York, but a repeat of that kind of test never looked on the cards.

Despite being taken to a tie-break in the second set, the number three seed always had the measure of Blake and admitted afterwards he was delighted by his performance.

"I think the focus today was great - just the patience in this weather, finding the right way to play in the certain moments," said Djokovic.

"It's a big mental struggle when you have such a strong wind to find a way how to try to play good tennis, especially if you have somebody across the net who is so aggressive, taking everything early and playing a risky game."

Djokovic was in total control in the early stages with Blake only managing to hold serve for the first time in the sixth game of the match.

But having run away with that first set, the Serbian then found himself under pressure in the second as Blake secured a break to move ahead.

But he responded by immediately breaking back and, despite a stunning passing shot from Blake which drew applause from both the crowd and his opponent, went on to win the ensuing tie-breaker.

That appeared to break Blake's resolve and, having broken the American in the fourth game of the final set, Djokovic cruised to victory.

Blake, who has been troubled by a succession of injuries over the past year, insisted he was hopeful of returning at next year's tournament.

"I really hope that wasn't my last match on Arthur Ashe Stadium - I definitely want to come back next year," he stated.

"I lost in straight sets but I put a little scare in the number three player in the world. I think I've got more in me and I'm going to be back."

Epic win for Fish

But while Blake departed, there was better news of his fellow American Mardy Fish who progressed to the fourth round, but not before being given an almighty scare by French veteran Arnaud Clement.

Fish, who has enjoyed the best season of his career, was hot favourite heading into the encounter but was pushed all the way by his opponent before recording a 4-6 6-3 6-4 1-6 6-3 victory.

Number 13 seed Jurgen Melzer enjoyed a far easier passage as he defeated Spaniard Juan Carlos Ferrero in straight sets, winning 7-5 6-3 6-1.