Djokovic smooth ride to US Open Semis, outclasses Fritz with fierce mastery

ATP
Tuesday, 05 September 2023 at 22:26
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Novak Djokovic easily defeated Taylor Fritz 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 and advances to the US Open semifinals.

The Serbian athlete had no doubts against the 25-year-old American and spent only 2 hours and 37 minutes on the court to secure another victory. Djokovic held a commanding 7-0 lead in their head-to-head matchups and had only dropped one set to Fritz until now.

However, Fritz hoped to change the situation this time, with the home crowd support at the Arthur Ashe Stadium and his impressive performance. The world No. 9 hadn't dropped a set on his way to the fourth round, averaging just 2.25 games lost per set, with more than half of them coming in the fourth round against Dominic Stricker.

Although his opponent's form didn't bother the 23-time Grand Slam champion, Djokovic put behind the ghosts of his match against Laslo Djere when he had to come back from two sets down and easily defeated Borna Gojo in straight sets in the fourth round.

In the first set, almost every game had break points for either player. Fritz was the first to lose his serve in the second game, but he immediately recovered. However, Djokovic didn't waver in crucial moments and secured two more breaks.

The 6-1 score reflected Djokovic's concentration in pivotal moments and his effectiveness in attacking Fritz's second serve, winning 81% of the points on Fritz's second serve.

Nole didn't let up and broke in the third game of the second set. Fritz fought to break back in the following game but squandered his four break opportunities, the only ones Djokovic conceded in the set before winning it 6-4.

Once again, Djokovic dominated from his opponent's second serve, winning 78% of the points. He also showcased an excellent first serve, winning 82% of those points.

With two sets up, the 3-time US Open champion didn't let up, taking the first break in the seventh game, but Fritz immediately recovered to keep the score level at 4-4. Another break by Djokovic, capitalizing on Fritz's unforced errors, allowed him to serve for the win and take the final set 6-4.

Djokovic's victory gives him an impressive total of 47 Grand Slam semifinal appearances, surpassing Roger Federer's record of 46 and leaving Rafael Nadal further behind with 38.

'Nole' will face the winner of the match between world No. 10 Frances Tiafoe and young star Ben Shelton, both of whom are North Americans. This match is scheduled for the evening session.

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