Novak Djokovic survived a spirited challenge from Taylor Fritz to reach the US Open semi-finals, winning 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 at Flushing Meadows. The 38-year-old Serb saved 11 of 13 break points to fend off the American, who had the backing of an increasingly vocal New York crowd.
Djokovic started strongly but lost his serve rhythm in the second set, facing five break points while serving for the first set. He held his nerve to take the set, but Fritz fought back, breaking Djokovic's serve for the first time on his 11th break point to level the second set at 5-5. However, Fritz immediately double-faulted to hand the break back, and Djokovic sealed the set 7-5.
Fritz dominated the third set, breaking Djokovic early and riding the crowd's energy to a 6-3 victory. The fourth set was tense, with both players holding serve until Djokovic broke at 5-4 to close out the match. Djokovic praised Fritz's performance, saying: 'Incredibly close match, it was really anybody's match. I thought I was lucky to save some crucial break points in the second set.'
The victory makes Djokovic the oldest man in the Open Era to reach the semi-finals of all four grand slams in a calendar year. He will now face Carlos Alcaraz, who earlier eased past Jiri Lehecka in straight sets, for a place in the final.
Fritz, who entered the match in strong form, wore his bandana upside down, showing 'ssob' instead of 'boss'. Despite his best efforts, he was unable to pull off the biggest win of his career.
