NEW YORK (AP) – Novak Djokovic advanced to the fourth round of the U.S. Open on Friday night after defeating Britain’s Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-7 (4), 6-2, 6-3. At 38 years old, Djokovic became the oldest man since Jimmy Connors in 1991 to reach the last 16 in New York, while also matching Roger Federer’s record of 69 career round-of-16 appearances at Grand Slam events.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion required medical treatment late in the first set after appearing to tweak his back. He briefly left the court for a timeout, then received a massage and medication before resuming play. Despite dropping the second set and falling behind early in the third, Djokovic recovered with his strongest serving performance of the tournament, hitting 18 aces to close out the victory.
Djokovic acknowledged the challenge of managing his body at this stage of his career, saying the wear and tear “is taking a toll,” but adding that he continues to push himself to compete at the highest level. His season has been disrupted by injuries, including a hamstring tear at the Australian Open and a groin issue at Wimbledon, but he remains in pursuit of a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.
Next, Djokovic will face German qualifier Jan-Lennard Struff, who praised the Serbian’s enduring form. With his win over Norrie, Djokovic reaffirmed his place as a contender in New York, showing that while his body is tested, his determination remains undiminished.