Novak Djokovic Arrives on Court. Image: PA Images.
(The Post News)– Novak Djokovic Overcomes Injury for U.S. Open Fourth Round. He battled a back issue early in the match and managed to defeat Cam Norrie, securing a place in the fourth round of the U.S. Open.
At 38 years old, Djokovic achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the oldest man to reach this stage of the tournament since Jimmy Connors. Connors was also 38 when he made it to the fourth round in 1991.
The match saw Djokovic initially struggle with his back, but he quickly found his rhythm and displayed his characteristic resilience. He won in four sets, 6-4, 6-7 (4), 6-2, 6-3, showcasing his mental toughness and ability to push through physical discomfort. Djokovic’s performance was bolstered by his outstanding serving, hitting a total of 18 aces.
He later described it as his best serving display of the tournament, with his serve proving to be a major weapon in neutralizing Norrie’s challenge. With this victory, Djokovic not only advanced further in the tournament but also cemented his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest players, defying age and injury to continue his pursuit of more Grand Slam titles.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion, Djokovic, appeared to be in danger of suffering one of his earliest exits at the U.S. Open when he needed medical attention toward the end of the first set. With his back causing him discomfort, it seemed as though the injury could derail his bid for a 25th Grand Slam title.
Despite the setback, Djokovic showed his trademark resilience and then fought through the pain to ultimately win the match, reaching the last 16 of a major for the 69th time. This milestone ties him with Roger Federer for the most appearances in the fourth round of a Grand Slam in the Open Era.
In what was a true display of his mental strength and determination, Djokovic managed to regain his focus and composure, battling past the physical discomfort to seal the victory. His recovery allowed him to continue his quest for a record-breaking number of Grand Slam titles. Djokovic now faces German qualifier Jan Lennard Struff in the next round, where he will look to extend his remarkable run at major tournaments.
Djokovic Refuses to Reveal Details of Injury
After the match, Djokovic remained tight-lipped about the specifics of his injury, choosing not to reveal further details during his on-court interview. The No. 7-seeded player focused instead on his performance and recovery, reflecting on how he managed to regroup after the medical timeout.
While Novak Djokovic did not go into specifics, his ability to recover and press on in the face of adversity highlights his mental fortitude and experience on the big stage. “I’m feeling great, just as young and strong as I’ve always been,” he said.
During a point at 5-3 in the first set, he awkwardly raised his racket to reach a volley and immediately showed signs of discomfort. He started stretching his back between points and barely moved for a ball that Norrie hit toward the corner.
Novak Djokovic made a signal to the chair umpire that he needed a trainer, and shortly after, he walked to the locker room for a medical timeout, gripping his lower left back. He returned to the court quickly and held serve to take the opening set.
At the changeover at 2-1 in the second set, Novak Djokovic received a back massage while seated on the sidelines and took medication from a doctor. The U.S. Open marked Djokovic’s return to the competition after that period, and he has since encountered challenges in each of his first three matches.
About the Author
