Now that top-seeded Roger Federer has bowed out of the 2012 US Open, second-seeded and defending champion Novak Djokovic appears as the most favorite contender to clinch the title at Flushing Meadows, this time. But, first of all – Djokovic will have to get past lanky Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro, who certainly has the potential to send the Serbian home.

The Argentine put an end to hopes of a dramatic finish to Andy Roddick’s career on Wednesday, as he defeated the American in four sets. This time Del Potro is also looking absolutely fit and this could pave the path for his second major win. He triumphed here before in 2009, when he beat Roger Federer in an epic final and claimed his maiden major. On the other hand, Novak Djokovic secured his berth into the last eight on Wednesday. The Serbian was 6-4 6-1 3-1 up against Stanislas Wawrinka before the Swiss No. 2 had to retire because of an injury.

The World No. 2 Novak Djokovic could not defend his Wimbledon title and we could see that latent agony burning him from inside. As asserted by Djokovic during a press conference, he wants to move ahead and prove his critics wrong who have termed him as “One-Season Wonder,” by winning the US Open. Last season clearly belonged to this surging Serb, as Nole claimed 10 titles including three Grand Slams. Djokovic won the 2011 US Open after making an incredible comeback against Roger Federer in the semis. This season has been a mixed one for him. The Serb managed to defend his Rogers Cup title at Montreal but that win could be called as a half-victory – as it came in the absence of Federer, Nadal and Murray. We know Djokovic likes to play on hard-court and his swiftness on court further makes him a potent warrior on this surface. He will be looking forward to defend his title at Flushing Meadows. If the Serb manages to keep a check on recurring errors in long rallies against the top players then it would be very difficult for others to stop him.

Lanky Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro caught the attention of everyone by beating Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer back-to-back and claimed his maiden Grand Slam title in 2009 at Flushing Meadows. Though, Del Potro had already shown the glimpses of his rare talent by earning some significant victories prior to that feat but his 2009 US Open win brought him on the center stage and the world witnessed the arrival of a new tennis star. As the destiny had it, this talented Argentine failed to even compete in the 2010 US Open due to a career threatening wrist injury. But, luckily it seems that Del Potro has fully recovered from a few grave injuries and now he looks ready to make up for that lost time.

In head-to-head, Djokovic leads with 5-2 against the Argentine. Last time they met in Cincinnati Masters last month, where Djokovic topped Del Potro in straight sets.