CNN
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Novak Djokovic booked his place in it. US Open semi-final with an emphatic victory over American Taylor Fritz on Tuesday.
Faster around, the world No. 2 assured himself Court And hit winners from all angles to win 6-1 6-4 6-4.
Fritz showed glimpses of why he is being tipped as part of tennis’ next generation of star players, but was unable to withstand Djokovic’s relentless pressure.
The victory ensured Djokovic’s hopes of winning a 24th Grand Slam title remain alive, as he looks to equal Margaret Court’s all-time record and extend his own men’s record.
Djokovic will face another American in the final four, with the winner facing off. Frances Tiafoe and Ben SheltonBut he was eager to enjoy the feeling of making just one more Grand Slam semi-final.
Clearly in jubilant mood after securing his victory, Djokovic led the crowd in a singalong to the Beastie Boys’ classic ‘Fight For Your Right’.
“I’m drenched in sweat. I saw Taylor change his shirt a couple of times, it was very humid conditions,” Djokovic said in his on-court interview when asked about the conditions inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.
“Playing is difficult, but that’s why we train and try to put ourselves in the best conditions. Not easy but you have to fight, as the song says, you have to fight for your right to party.
The Serb is in the United States for the first time since 2021 because of his unvaccinated status, but he quickly returned to winning ways at the Cincinnati Open ahead of the US Open, defeating Carlos Alcaraz in a memorable final. Made up for lost time.
Djokovic has continued to look ugly throughout the tournament in New York and the quarter-finals were another stage where he produced some remarkable tennis.
“I love the energy and the atmosphere here on court. I thrive on that energy, whatever energy there is, trying to play my best tennis, using it as fuel,” Djokovic added.
“I have been playing on this court for so many years, so many epic matches. I can’t wait for another one in a few days.
Djokovic raced to a one-set lead in just 43 minutes against world No. 9 Fritz, producing some magical returns and excellent service games.
The 25-year-old Fritz mustered the courage to come back into the match and clashed with the tennis great in the second set. However, despite Fritz’s best efforts, an early break in the set allowed Djokovic to take a firm hold on the tie.
Fritz, who is enjoying his best run at his home Grand Slam, continued to improve in the game and gave Djokovic a tough test in the third set.
The American earned a number of break points against the 36-year-old, but Djokovic won at the most crucial moments to stay ahead.
Many inside the Arthur Ashe Stadium cheered for Fritz throughout the tie, but Djokovic was able to use the party crowd to his advantage, producing a roar after eventually winning the match point.