Can Djokovic Secure His 25th Grand Slam Title?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Djokovic defeats Norrie to advance in the U.S. Open.
- Overcomes a lower back issue during the match.
- Achieves a record 192 hardcourt wins at majors.
- Maintains a flawless record against Norrie (7-0).
- Next up: a match against Jan-Lennard Struff.
New York, Aug 30 (NationPress) Novak Djokovic continued his pursuit of an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title on Friday, overcoming a minor lower back concern to triumph over unseeded British player Cameron Norrie with scores of 6-4, 6-7(4), 6-2, 6-3, securing his advancement to the fourth round of the U.S. Open.
Playing under the bright lights at Arthur Ashe Stadium, the 38-year-old demonstrated his renowned tenacity, becoming the oldest man to reach the last 16 at Flushing Meadows since Jimmy Connors did so in 1991.
As the all-time leader in Grand Slam titles (24) and match victories (395), Djokovic celebrated yet another milestone by surpassing Roger Federer for the most hardcourt victories at the majors, achieving his 192nd win. The four-time U.S. Open champion also maintained his flawless record against Norrie, improving it to 7-0.
"Entering the match, like any match, the goal is to win in straight sets without complications and glide through, but that’s not always achievable," Djokovic remarked.
"My team prefers I face challenges on the court to accumulate more match time. It’s beneficial to be tested, especially since I hadn’t played since Wimbledon, which feels like quite a long time—five to six weeks for us.
"I’m still working on finding my groove and rhythm on the court," he added.
Djokovic quickly applied pressure on Norrie, breaking to gain a 4-3 lead with a stunning forehand winner. He then hit the ninth of his 18 aces in the following game, solidifying his lead.
"I believe it was probably the best serving performance of the tournament," Djokovic stated.
"I’m pleased with it. Serving is arguably one of the most, if not the most crucial shot in tennis. Yes, I’m satisfied with how I executed that shot."
After taking a 5-4 lead in the first set, Novak Djokovic started to feel the impact of his back issue and briefly left the court for treatment before returning to clinch the set. He required further medical assistance early in the second set, during which his serve speed decreased.
Nonetheless, he persevered through a close tiebreak that Norrie ultimately won. The Brit broke early in the third, but Djokovic quickly responded by winning three consecutive games and even silenced a disruptive spectator. Regaining full control, Djokovic wrapped up the third set and dominated the fourth to secure victory and set up a meeting with Jan-Lennard Struff.