Novak Djokovic continued his dominance in men’s tennis with a commanding victory over Jan-Lennard Struff in the fourth round of the US Open. The victory all but ensured Djokovic’s place in the quarterfinals. It highlighted just how incredible his accomplishments were at Grand Slam events. Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, improved his perfect mark against qualifiers in these elite tournaments to 36-0.
In a match characterized by his powerful serve and strategic play, Djokovic broke Struff’s serve six times, quickly asserting control from the opening game. Struff came into the tournament with an astounding 66 aces. He found it hard to deploy his most famous armament on the crafty champion. Djokovic’s stats were dominant as well, with 12 aces and winning 79% of points off his first serve.
Physical Challenges and Milestones
Despite his impressive performance, Djokovic faced physical challenges during the match, requiring treatment for discomfort in his right shoulder and forearm. Even a sprightly Novak’s resilience was inevitable as he pressed on to serve up a remarkable night, hunting down the record 25th major title.
As epic as this victory was, it did send Djokovic into the record-setting books. He became the oldest male player to get to the quarterfinals of all four Grand Slam events in one season. He advanced to his 64th Grand Slam quarterfinal, a record he had set himself. This accomplishment is undoubtedly a testament to his unparalleled longevity as a player on the court.
“For me, last couple of years, I learned one thing: right now, is to take really one match at a time.” – Novak Djokovic
Balancing Family and Competition
Djokovic’s quarterfinal match is particularly significant as it coincides with his daughter’s birthday. He said he was disappointed to miss the celebration, but his player loyalty was to the tournament.
“Yeah, she was not very happy about it, me being absent from the birthday party. Don’t remind me of that, please.” – Novak Djokovic
As he navigates the pressures of high-stakes tennis and family commitments, Djokovic remains focused on achieving success in the tournament.
“I’ll try to win if I’m here. At least I’m going to try to win and give her that kind of present.” – Novak Djokovic
He’s looking to atone for the time he lost while not focused on policy. He’s already bought various gifts, surprises, even a Custom-Wrapped Jeep for his little girl’s special day.
Looking Ahead
Djokovic looks ahead to a possible quarterfinal showdown with Taylor Fritz as he savors his victory today. Indeed, Fritz was the US Open 2024’s almost-man—what more can you ask of a coach? As he gears up for this new test, Djokovic was quick to point out that serving better is key in staying ahead of the competition.
“It definitely helps if you serve well. I think I had a great serving performance in the last round and also tonight.” – Novak Djokovic
He expressed his happiness at outserving Struff, who was one of the best servers in the tournament.
“I just saw the stats, I outserved one of the guys that had the most aces during the tournament this year, so that’s a great stat. Obviously, that helps make my life easier on the court.” – Novak Djokovic
