US Open 2025: Djokovic Battles Past Fritz to Set Semi-Final Showdown with Alcaraz

Novak Djokovic has booked his place in yet another US Open semi-final after outlasting Taylor Fritz 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 in a gripping encounter inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The 38-year-old Serbian, chasing a fifth crown in New York, extended his flawless record over the American to 11-0 in their Lexus ATP Head2head rivalry.

Fritz, last year’s finalist, will look back with frustration after converting just two of 13 break points. The world No. 12 played aggressively, especially in the third set, but his inability to seize key chances ultimately proved costly. Djokovic capitalised on his opponent’s lapse late in the fourth set, breaking at 5-4 before sealing victory after three hours and 24 minutes, helped by a double fault from Fritz on match point.

“Incredibly close match,” Djokovic admitted in his post-match interview. “I was lucky to save some crucial points in the second set. For long stretches he was the better player, but at the end of the day, a few points decide it. I’m proud of the fight.”

The victory not only pushes Djokovic into his 14th US Open semi-final—tying Jimmy Connors’ record—but also sets up a blockbuster clash with Carlos Alcaraz. The two have met eight times, with Djokovic leading 5-3, including wins in their last two showdowns. Remarkably, this will be their first meeting at Flushing Meadows, adding extra spice to Friday night’s encounter.

Djokovic, currently third in the PIF ATP Live Race to Turin behind Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, continues to show why he remains a relentless competitor deep into his 30s.

With history on the line, the tennis world now eagerly awaits another chapter in the growing Djokovic-Alcaraz rivalry.