Laver Cup: Novak Djokovic defeats Frances Tiafoe and takes the lead for Team Europe

It was the first time Novak Djokovic competed since winning his 21st Grand Slam title at Wimbledon in July this year. The 35-year-old Serb was at the top of his form and dominated his American opponent with his ferocious groundstrokes.

Novak Djokovic cruised past Frances Tiafoe to earn his 24th tour-level win of the season after one hour and 13 minutes of play at The O2 Arena in London, England, on September 25.

The victory improved the record of Novak Djokovic at the Laver Cup to 1-1, having lost his only previous Laver Cup match to Kevin Anderson in 2018.

Soon after, Novak Djokovic returned to court alongside Matteo Berrettini to beat Alex de Minaur and Jack Sock in a men's doubles clash.

After the victory, Novak Djokovic said, "First time, but definitely not the last time, at least for me. I enjoyed it a lot. Perfect team, I guess. I don't play doubles as much, so it's a completely different game."

Matteo Berrettini defeated Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6(11), 4-6, 10-7 after a hard-fought clash in the day's opening match to put Team Europe in the lead. 

World No. 15 Matteo Berrettini used his aggressive forehand and deep backhand slice to dominate his Canadian opponent. He saved a breakpoint in the opening set and raised his level in the third set tiebreak to secure his victory after two hours and 15 minutes of play.

After the victory, Matteo Berrettini said, "It is always a great fight against Felix. We played for two hours and 15 minutes and he is a hell of a player. I had to play my best tennis in the Tie-break to win. I am really happy because I didn't win just for me but for the team."

Taylor Fritz secured the only victory of the day for Team World after defeating Cameron Norrie of Great Britain 6-1, 4-6, 10-8.