Novak Djokovic once again proved why he remains one of the greatest competitors in tennis, overcoming Taylor Fritz in four sets to book his place in a record-extending 14th US Open semi-final. The 38-year-old battled through moments of vulnerability to win 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4, setting up a blockbuster clash with Carlos Alcaraz.
Djokovic started the match in commanding fashion but was soon dragged into a dogfight as Fritz found his rhythm. The American created five break points late in the opening set, but the Serbian fended off every one with his trademark resilience. That mental toughness carried him through the crucial moments, even as the crowd grew restless and began rooting loudly for Fritz.
The second set brought even greater drama. Fritz’s relentless returning piled pressure on Djokovic, forcing long service games. After finally breaking serve on his 11th opportunity, Fritz faltered immediately, handing back the break with a double fault. Djokovic capitalized, moving two sets up, though not without significant resistance.
Fritz refused to bow out quietly. Spurred on by the New York crowd, he clawed back into the contest in the third set, breaking Djokovic to force a fourth. His booming serve and flat groundstrokes gave him the edge for long spells, and for nearly two sets he looked like the better player on court.
But in the decisive moments, Djokovic’s experience proved decisive. With Fritz serving to stay in the match at 4-5 in the fourth set, nerves took over. Missed first serves and passive play allowed Djokovic to seize control, breaking one final time to seal victory.
This latest triumph highlights Djokovic’s enduring dominance in the latter stages of major tournaments. Already the oldest man in the Open Era to reach all four Grand Slam semi-finals in a single season, he continues to set new standards for longevity and competitiveness. Saving 11 of 13 break points and outlasting an in-form opponent, Djokovic once again showed why he thrives under pressure.
Up next is a much-anticipated semi-final clash with Alcaraz, a generational talent and one of the few players capable of challenging Djokovic’s supremacy. With the Serbian chasing a 25th Grand Slam title and a fifth US Open crown, the stage is set for a thrilling battle between experience and youth.
