US Open 2023: Novak Djokovic continues domination, enters semifinals

There is always something special about Novak Djokovic. He is well known to bring his best tennis on the biggest stage and that’s what he did once again against local favorite Taylor Fritz in the quarterfinals of the US Open at the Arthur Ashe Stadium on Tuesday.

The Serbian continued his march as he bested the American in straight sets by 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 to enter his 13th US Open semifinals and his 47th overall Major semis. Djokovic also improved his head-to-head record to 8-0 against Fritz and this was his 30th win on the bounce against the Americans.

Djokovic also had to battle the heat as it was 34-degree hot but he kept his cool to advance through to the next round.

“I am drenched in sweat and I saw Taylor change shirt a couple of times. It was very humid conditions,” Djokovic said. “Difficult to play for both players. But it is the same for both players and that is why we train. To try and get ourselves in the best possible condition to deliver. It is not easy, but you have to fight.”

In fact, Fritz, playing his first US Open quarterfinal, had lost his serve once throughout the tournament. But the American was broken on six occasions by Djokovic as the latter had nine break points.

Djokovic added he loves the energy of the crowd and it pushed him to give his absolute best.

“I like the energy and the atmosphere on the court here. I thrive on that energy, whatever the energy is, use it as a fuel to try and play my best tennis,” Djokovic said. “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 time.”

Djokovic will face another American challenge in Ben Shelton on Saturday in the semifinals.