Novak Djokovic is rapidly gaining momentum at the US Open but he is taking nothing for granted heading into the second week of the Grand Slam
The world No.2 sealed a place in his 13th quarter-final of the tournament with a 6-2, 7-5, 6-4, win over Croatian qualifier Borna Gojo. Djokovic dropped serve only once in the match as he hit 26 winners against 12 unforced errors. He has now won 26 fourth round matches on a hardcourt at Grand Slam tournaments which is something that has only been done in the Open Era by Roger Federer.
“I am satisfied,” the Serbian replied when asked if he was happy about his run so far in New York. “I like how I entered the match (against Gojo). Good intensity, great first set.”
“One of the keys to the win today was to try to neutralize his serve, get as many serves back in play as possible, and make him run. He’s a big guy. Moves well for his height, but is not maybe the best mover. I knew that’s where tactically my chance is.’
“I think I’ve done well, particularly in the second and third set in some key moments, holding my nerve. I served well, and read his serve. Made him always play an extra shot. I’m pleased to go through in straights.”
Djokovic is seeking his 24th Grand Slam title and his first at the US Open since 2018. He has dropped two sets in the tournament so far, which was in the third round against Laslo Djere. Earlier in the draw, he scored wins over Alexandre Muller and Barnabe Zapata Miralles.
The next test for Djokovic will be home favorite Taylor Fritz who beat Switzerland’s Dominic Stricker in straight sets. Not only will he have to deal with his upcoming opponent on the court, but he will also face the animated US Open crowd who will most likely be on Fritz’s side.
“I assume there’s going to be more support for Taylor Fritz in our next match,” he said.
“It’s expected. We’re in America playing against home players. It’s something that I would be surprised if it’s otherwise, to be honest. So I know what I’m expecting, and I’m going to get ready for that mentally.’
“Matches are only going to get tougher from now on. It’s the quarterfinals of a slam.”
Djokovic will be the overwhelming favourite against Fritz who he leads 7-0 in their head-to-head. However, the American states that he has ‘nothing to lose’ and is not giving up on the hope of pulling off an upset.
“I’m not going to overplay,” said Fritz. “I’m not going to do anything different because I’m playing Novak. I’m going to play my game, play within myself, and trust that if I play well, it’s enough.”
Fritz is one of three American men to reach the quarter-finals of the US Open this year. The other two are Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe who face off against each other. Should Djokovic win his next match, he will then play one of those two players.
“I’m sure there’s a lot of excitement about Americans being so successful lately,” Djokovic commented.
“It’s great that Ben Shelton, for example, a player that came from college tennis, is playing on the highest level, producing some amazing tennis. I think it’s a great message for all the players who want to go to college but then still keep on playing professionally. It proves that it is possible, which may be up to 15, 20 years ago, it was completely different.”
Djokovic will play his quarter-final match against Fritz on Tuesday.
