Novak Djokovic overcame a spirited challenge from Cameron Norrie to advance to the fourth round of the US Open, sealing a 6-4, 6-7(4), 6-2, 6-3 victory under the lights in New York. The win marks his best performance of the tournament so far and places him in the history books as the oldest man, at 38, to reach the US Open last 16 since Jimmy Connors in 1991. He also equals Roger Federer’s record with 69 fourth-round appearances at Grand Slam events.
Djokovic entered the tournament short of match sharpness after a six-week absence from the tour and had shown patchy form in earlier rounds. Against Norrie, however, he rediscovered much of his rhythm, producing 18 aces and commanding play from the baseline in the closing stages. Still, his struggles with physical fitness remained evident, as he required a medical timeout late in the first set to address discomfort in his lower back.
The Serb admitted afterwards that managing his body has become increasingly difficult. He noted that while he can still find a high level on court, the frustration lies in no longer being able to feel consistently fit as he did in the prime years of his career.
Norrie, competing for the first time on Arthur Ashe Stadium, showed admirable fight and tactical bravery. Known more for consistency than raw power, the Briton went on the attack, particularly with his forehand, which helped him snatch the second set in a tie-break. For a spell, he looked capable of extending the match further, but Djokovic’s relentless depth and serving quality eventually proved too much.
Despite the loss, Norrie leaves New York with positives. His summer campaign has shown steady improvement, and facing players of Djokovic’s calibre has provided valuable experience to push his game forward.
For Djokovic, the win offers both reassurance and warning signs. His form is building at the right time, but the physical challenges remind him that each match could present new obstacles. Still, his ability to adjust, dig deep, and raise his level against a dangerous opponent demonstrates why he remains one of the sport’s most formidable competitors.
As the tournament enters its second week, Djokovic carries momentum, history, and experience on his side though his path forward may depend as much on how his body holds up as on his unrivaled tennis skill.
