Novak Djokovic reached a record 47th men’s Grand Slam semi-final with a straight-set win over Taylor Fritz at the US Open.
The Serb, 36, prevailed 6-1 6-4 6-4 on Arthur Ashe Stadium to continue his pursuit of a record-equaling 24th Grand Slam title. Djokovic achieved his victory despite temporarily appearing to struggle with the heat and humidity in New York.
The three-time champion will face home hope Ben Shelton in the last four. Shelton, in contrast to Djokovic, will be appearing in his first Grand Slam semi-final following his win over compatriot Frances Tiafoe.
“I’ve been playing on this court for many years, so many epic matches and I cannot wait for another one in a few days’ time,” said Djokovic, a three-time US Open champion, adding: “It was very humid conditions. Difficult to play but that is why we train and try to get ourselves in the best conditions to deliver. Not easy but you have to fight.”
Djokovic maintained his perfect record in the US Open quarter-finals – with this his 13th win in a row at that stage – to overtake Roger Federer for most Grand Slam men’s semi-final appearances. The victory also moved him within two wins of equalling Australian Margaret Court’s tally of major singles triumphs.
The win means Djokovic remains on course for another showdown with top seed Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday’s final, just two months after the 20-year-old edged a thrilling five-set Wimbledon final against the Serb. Spaniard Alcaraz meets German Alexander Zverev on Wednesday for a place in the last four.