The 38-year-old claimed his record 192nd Grand Slam match victory, surpassing legendary Roger Federer on hard courts with a 6-4, 6-7 (4), 6-2, 6-3 triumph, keeping alive his bid for an unprecedented 25th major title. Djokovic extended his perfect record against Norrie to 7-0, advancing to the US Open fourth round for the 16th time in his career. The Serbian will next face German veteran Jan-Lennard Struff on Sunday, after Struff’s impressive run that included wins over seeded players Holger Rune and Frances Tiafoe.
“Coming into any match you really want to win in straight sets without any drama but obviously that’s not possible,” said Djokovic in an on-court interview. “It’s good that I get tested. I obviously haven’t had any matches since Wimbledon. I’m still trying to find my rhythm and my groove on the court.”
Djokovic secured the opening set with a single break in the seventh game, though he briefly required treatment on his lower back and took a medical timeout before serving it out.
“It’s all right, you have some ups and downs. You don’t want to reveal too much to the rivals listening and watching this interview. I’m good, man. I’m as young as ever and strong as ever,” Djokovic said with a grin while not divulging details further.
Norrie fought back in the second, saving three break points before edging a tie-break after Djokovic double-faulted on set point. The Brit then broke early in the third, only for Djokovic to respond emphatically with four straight games to seize back control.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion closed out the set, and an early break in the fourth gave him the cushion to seal another milestone victory and book his place in the next round.
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