Djokovic on verge of history after battling past Zverev in five-set thriller to reach US Open final

In a highly anticipated rematch of the Tokyo Olympics semifinal, Novak Djokovic overcame his toughest test yet as he defeated Alexander Zverev to reach the US Open final.

The Serbian displayed great mental strength in his 4-6 6-2 6-4 4-6 6-2 victory, dropping the first set but rallying to fight past the fourth seed on Friday night. Zverev was superb in the first set, matching the Serbian shot-for-shot before obtaining the break that saw him escape with the first set.

As has become customary with Djokovic over the last week, the World No.1 was forced to come back from a set deficit to win the second set, raising his level of play as Zverev could only hope to keep up. With momentum on his side, the top seed claimed the third set, leaving fans to wonder if Zverev could prevent the inevitable.

The German was quick to respond, appearing revitalized as he attacked Djokovic with his impressive backhand while hitting some well-placed serves. Another break saw the World No.4 win the fourth set, with fans clamoring for a climactic finish to this epic match.

With so much at stake, Djokovic displayed the mental fortitude for which he is well-known. The Serbian broke his German opponent in his first service game, before racing to a quick 5-0 lead as Zverev seemed to be out of sorts. However, Djokovic faltered when serving for the match at 5-1, but was able to convert on his first match point in the subsequent game to secure his spot in the final.

Djokovic is on the verge of making history, as he could win a record 21st Grand Slam title on Sunday. Furthermore, he also stands to complete the career Grand Slam, as he holds all three Major titles this year. In his way is World No.2 Daniil Medvedev, who will be itching for revenge following his loss to Djokovic in the final of this year's Australian Open.