Blake and Djokovic comment about upcoming matchup

James Blake and Djokovic advanced to the third round yesterday and will face off for an astounding early-round matchup.

Their only prior meeting came at the 2008 Beijing Olympics when Djokovic beat Blake 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) to bring Serbia a bronze medal. Both were in the unusual situation of a meaningful match after a tournament loss.

"That was a difficult situation," Blake said. "I think both of us were a little shaken up about it because it means so much to you. You're not used to losing and then coming back and playing.

"But he played well. We had a pretty tight match. He's got a great service motion, a great serve, one of the best backhands in the game. His movement is unbelievable. I'm going to have to play well, that's for sure."

Djokovic realizes he is in a similar situation.

"He's a very aggressive player and I have no doubt that he's going to have that mindset when we step on the court," Djokovic said. "He's going to try to take the ball early, and I have to be ready for that."

Blake said Djokovic may be better right now, but the home crowd will even the odds.

“If people on the outside are looking at it, you’ve got to think that he’s the favorite … He’s [got] one of the more underrated serves in the game. He’s got a great service motion, a great serve, one of the best backhands in the game. His movement is unbelievable. I’m goint to have to play well, that's for sure.

“It will be on Ashe Stadium. I think I’ll have pretty good crowd support. Hopefully I can come up with some of my best as I’ve been known to do at the Open before.”