Novak Djokovic overcomes back issue
Novak Djokovic Defies Age and Injury to Reach U.S. Open Fourth Round
In a remarkable display of resilience, tennis legend Novak Djokovic, aged 38, has made history at the 2025 U.S. Open. The Serbian superstar became the oldest man to reach the fourth round of the tournament since Jimmy Connors in 1991.
Djokovic's journey to the last 16 was not without its challenges. During his match against Cam Norrie, he experienced discomfort while reaching for a volley at 5-3 in the first set. This prompted him to signal for a medical timeout. Later in the match, he received treatment for a blister on his big toe and a lower left back issue.
Despite these setbacks, Djokovic demonstrated his unwavering determination to stay competitive with the younger players at the highest level. He returned from the medical timeout to deliver a holding serve, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
The match against Norrie took a worrying turn due to Djokovic's back issue. At one point, he barely moved for a ball that Norrie hit toward the corner. However, Djokovic held his ground, winning the first set 6-4. The second set saw a tight battle, with Norrie taking it in a tiebreak 6-7 (4).
However, Djokovic regained his form in the third and fourth sets, recording 18 aces in the match, and securing victory with a score of 6-2, 6-7 (4), 6-2, 6-3.
In the next round, Djokovic will face German qualifier Jan-Lennard Struff. Struff, who played Djokovic in the quarterfinal of the US Open 2025, commented on Djokovic's impressive play, stating that he's showing it's possible to play at a high level at an older age.
Djokovic's achievement also marks a significant milestone in his career. He reached the last 16 of a major tournament for the 69th time, equaling Roger Federer's record. Reflecting on his journey, Djokovic commented that the wear and tear on his body after all these years is starting to take a toll.
Despite this, Djokovic remains optimistic about his prospects in the tournament. As he prepares to face Struff, the world will be watching to see if the tennis great can continue his remarkable run at the U.S. Open.
