Djokovic survives early Brooksby onslaught to keep calendar Grand Slam dream alive

Novak Djokovic is still in the hunt for completing the calendar Grand Slam, as the Serbian overcame a furious start by American youngster Jenson Brooksby to reach the US Open quarterfinals.

The World No.1 pulled off a 1-6 6-3 6-2 6-2 victory over the #NextGenATP star, stifling an impressive start by the 20-year old. Brooksby was dominant in the first set, surprising the top seed with his speed, power and shot placement. To the joy of the home crowd, the World No.99 took the first set and an upset was in the cards.

Known for his fighting spirit and mental toughness, the Serbian mounted a comeback as he systematically took apart his opponent. Brooksby committed just one unforced error in the first set, but Djokovic completely took control in the second as he made the American scramble around the court before claiming the second.

The crowd could sense the shift in momentum and tried to spur Brooksby on, but it was to no avail as Djokovic had a stranglehold on the match and refused to let go. Despite some spectacular play from the youngster, the 20-time Grand Slam champion dominated the final two sets, hitting 44 winners as he cleaned up his errors. A final break saw Djokovic serve for the match, with the Wimbledon champion sealing his victory in just under three hours.

With his quest for a 21st Major title still alive, the Serbian will now face sixth seed Matteo Berrettini in a rematch of this year's Wimbledon final.