Novak Djokovic has continued to make history this year in major tournaments. In New York, he became the oldest man in over 30 years to advance to the fourth round of the US Open, a feat he repeated by winning that match. His straight-sets triumph over Jan Lennard Struff also made him, at 38, the oldest man in the Open Era to reach the quarter-finals of all four major tournaments in a single season.
Djokovic’s recent accomplishments are unmatched, but for a player who has already claimed every major title, only more victories will satisfy his ambitions. Once again, he has worked his way into the later stages of a grand slam, hoping luck will favor him as he chases a 25th major trophy.
Following his semi-final loss at Wimbledon, Djokovic chose to prioritize time with his family and personal preparation over competing. While some early-round struggles were expected, his performance improved significantly after a strong four-set win against Cameron Norrie. His serve, in particular, has been outstanding, helping him play the precise, aggressive style that has defined his success.
However, the bigger question is whether his body can hold up through two weeks of demanding best-of-five matches against top opponents. Earlier this year, he withdrew from his Australian Open semi-final against Alexander Zverev due to a hamstring injury. At Wimbledon, physical limitations were evident in his loss to Jannik Sinner, and he later expressed concerns about his aging body’s ability to endure such challenges.
Despite his improving form, Djokovic’s first four matches in New York have highlighted ongoing physical concerns. Nearly every win has involved treatment for different issues, including his neck, shoulder, and lower back. He has openly acknowledged the unpredictability of his condition.
“I don’t think there’s much more I can do beyond my current efforts,” he said. “If my body struggles in the later stages of a major, as it has recently, that’s tough to accept. I put in hours every day to stay fit, but age is inevitable—you can’t turn back time.”
His next test is a formidable one. Djokovic will go up against Taylor Fritz, the No. 4 seed and last year’s finalist, who has steadily improved and will be eager for a breakthrough victory at his home tournament.
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