Goa, Aug. 25 -- The US Open got off to a thrilling start as Aryna Sabalenka and Novak Djokovic both secured opening-round victories on Sunday.

Sabalenka, the defending champion, overcame early resistance from Rebeka Masarova before powering through 7-5, 6-1. The Belarusian star is chasing a rare repeat at Flushing Meadows, something last achieved by Serena Williams over a decade ago. "I didn't start my best, but I found my rhythm," she said after setting up a second-round clash with Polina Kudermetova.

On the men's side, Djokovic wasted little time reminding New York why he remains a force. The Serbian legend, aiming for his 25th Grand Slam, dispatched American teenager Learner Tien 6-1, 7-6, 6-2, thrilling a packed Arthur Ashe crowd. "...