Novak Djokovic’s return to the US Open semi-finals was as much about silencing the crowd as it was about subduing Taylor Fritz.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion clashed repeatedly with spectators inside Arthur Ashe Stadium on Tuesday night, blowing sarcastic kisses and gesturing for quiet as parts of the New York audience openly cheered his mistakes.
Despite the distractions, the 38-year-old found enough composure to extend his perfect record against Fritz to 11-0, winning 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 and booking a record-extending 53rd major semi-final — his 14th at Flushing Meadows.
“It’s tough when you’re out there and people are celebrating faults, but I just try to turn that energy into fuel,” Djokovic said afterwards.
Novak Djokovic was in fine form as he dispatched Taylor Fritz to reach the US Open semi-finals
|REUTERS
“Sometimes you give them a little kiss or a shush. It’s part of the game here.”
The tension peaked early in the third set as sections of the crowd became louder with every Djokovic error.
Chair umpire Damien Dumusois was forced to step in, repeatedly asking for calm.
Djokovic himself walked over to demand more from the official, sarcastically repeating back his words — “Thank you, please” — in frustration.
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Moments later, Fritz broke serve to move 3-1 ahead, sparking belief among the home fans.
But as has so often been the case in his long career, Djokovic responded when it mattered most.
After dropping the third set, he re-asserted control in the fourth, breaking decisively before sealing victory when Fritz double-faulted on match point.
For the American, it was another reminder of the gulf at the very top.
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For Tara. Soda popping into semifinal 🫶🏼
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) September 3, 2025
p.s. #онокад изађеш када је најтеже и победиш 💪🐺 pic.twitter.com/ad5LhqI45O
Fritz has never beaten Djokovic and remains without a win over any of the “big three” at a Grand Slam. His exit also ensures that the US men’s title drought, stretching back to Andy Roddick’s triumph in 2003, continues.
Djokovic, by contrast, marches on to face Carlos Alcaraz in a blockbuster semi-final.
The Spaniard has yet to drop a set at this year’s tournament and leads the next generation’s challenge, but trails the Serbian 5-3 in their head-to-head.
Djokovic has won their last two encounters, including a straight-sets win at the Australian Open and his long-awaited Olympic gold medal victory in Paris.
Tuesday night’s match carried a strange symmetry: both men dressed entirely in black, from shirts to shoes, though the similarities ended there.
Djokovic’s relentless returning and command of long rallies - he won 25 of the 42 points lasting nine shots or more - proved decisive.
He also saved 11 of 13 break points and even surprised Fritz by serve-volleying with near-perfect success.
“Taylor has improved a lot, especially his movement,” Djokovic said.
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Novak Djokovic remains unbeaten against Taylor Fritz following his win at the US Open
|REUTERS
“For a big guy, he covers the court really well. But in the biggest moments, I found my level.”
With his victory, Djokovic remains on course for a 25th Slam. Should he reach that number, he'll move clear of Margaret Court as the undisputed best tennis player of all time.