Djokovic, Murray advance in US Open
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New York (dpa) - Title rivals Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray both overcame difficulties to reach the third round of the US Open on Friday as the last grand slam of the season heads to the midway point.
Top seed Djokovic needed a set to adjust to challenging, windy conditions before settling into rhythm for a 7-6 (7-2), 6-2, 6-2 defeat of Benjamin Becker to earn a third-round spot.
Defending champion Murray, seeded third, survived a lapse to eventually defeat Argentine Leonardo Mayer 7-5, 6-1, 3-6, 6-1.
2001 champion Lleyton Hewitt belied his 32 years to stun 2009 winner Juan Del Potro 6-4, 5-7, 3-6, 7-6 (7-2), 6-1, a match ending after four hours with a double-fault from the Argentine.
World number one Djokovic faces a challenge to his top ranking if Spanish rival Rafael Nadal carries on winning after lifting nine titles so far this season.
