NEW YORK — Novak Djokovic’s quest for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam singles title remains firmly on course after he powered past German qualifier Jan-Lennard Struff 6-3, 6-2, 7-6(5) in a physically testing fourth-round encounter at the US Open.
Despite entering the match with significant concerns over a left wrist injury that had hampered his practice sessions and required heavy strapping, the Serbian superstar showcased his trademark resilience and tactical brilliance to secure a spot in the quarter-finals. The victory, achieved in two hours and 29 minutes, extends his incredible winning streak at Flushing Meadows to 31 matches.
Djokovic’s performance was a masterclass in controlled aggression, particularly in the first two sets. He broke Struff’s powerful serve early in each set, neutralizing the German’s biggest weapon and dictating the rallies from the baseline with precision and depth.
Navigating Pain and Adversity
The most talked-about aspect of the match was the visible discomfort Djokovic experienced with his left wrist. He was frequently seen flexing it between points and his serve speed was noticeably down in the opening games. However, true to his champion’s mentality, he seemed to play his way into the match, the pain apparently subsiding as his intensity rose.
In his post-match press conference, Djokovic was candid about the physical challenges, stating: "I was struggling a little bit with the wrist at the beginning. I had to get used to the pace and the conditions. It was very humid tonight, the ball was heavy. But I managed to find a good serve and play a great tie-break in the third set."
The third set proved to be the ultimate test of his resolve. Struff, refusing to go quietly, elevated his game significantly, unleashing a barrage of 130+ mph serves and fierce forehands. He secured the only break of the set and served for it at 5-3, putting Djokovic on the brink of conceding his first set of the tournament.
The Champion's Response Under Pressure
Facing a set point against him, Djokovic did what he has done countless times before: he raised his level. A stunning backhand return winner erased the set point and he broke back immediately, much to the roar of the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd. The set barreled into a tie-break where Djokovic’s experience was the decisive factor.
He raced to a 6-2 lead in the breaker, creating four match points. Struff saved three with fearless hitting, but on the fourth, a long rally ended with a Struff forehand sailing long, sealing Djokovic’s passage. The key factors in his victory included:
- Return Dominance: He neutralized one of the tour's biggest servers, breaking Struff five times.
- Clutch Play: He saved 4 of 5 break points faced, all at critical moments.
- Mental Fortitude: His ability to reset after losing his break advantage in the third set was pivotal.
Struff, to his immense credit, pushed the 23-time major champion to the limit. "He's an amazing player," Struff said afterward. "I had my chances in the third set. I served for it, had a set point. I went for it, he hit an unbelievable return. That's why he's one of the greatest."
The Path to History Continues
With this win, Djokovic advances to his 57th Grand Slam quarter-final, further extending his own record. He is now just seven match wins away from surpassing Roger Federer for the most Grand Slam match victories in history. More importantly, he remains on a collision course with his ultimate goal: a 25th major title that would break the tie with Margaret Court for the most all-time.
The physical question mark remains, however. The strapping on his wrist and his occasional grimaces suggest the issue is not fully resolved. The recovery between matches will be crucial as the competition gets steeper. He is scheduled to face another big-hitting opponent, either Taylor Fritz or Dominic Stricker, in the last eight.
A Testament to Longevity and Will
This performance was yet another testament to Djokovic’s unparalleled ability to win even when not at 100%. His capacity to problem-solve mid-match, adjust his tactics, and harness his mental strength when physically compromised separates him from his peers.
As the tournament enters its final week, all eyes will be on that left wrist. But if history is any guide, writing off Novak Djokovic is a perilous endeavor. He has repeatedly proven that his will to win is often the most powerful force on any tennis court. As he himself often says, the Grand Slams are where he finds his best level, and his journey toward a historic 25th title is very much alive in New York.
The Serbian will now enjoy a well-earned day of rest and intensive treatment before his quarter-final showdown, where he will aim to move one step closer to cementing his status as the most successful player in the history of the sport.