Djokovic def. Norrie in four sets to advance to the pre-quarterfinals.
Four-time Flushing Meadows champion Novak Djokovic produced another vintage performance on Friday, downing Cameron Norrie 6-4 6-7(4) 6-2 6-3 to advance to the Round of 16 at US Open 2025. Although there was more drama surrounding his fitness, Djokovic shrugged off the niggles to return to the second week of a major yet again. In the process, he attained an unbelievable Grand Slam record.
Djokovic hit 51 winners, including 18 aces throughout the match – his personal best at the US Open. It was a statement performance from the 24-time major champ, who is expected to collide with Taylor Fritz in the QFs and Carlos Alcaraz in the SFs. Prior to that however, Djokovic will meet qualifier Jan-Lennard Struff in the pre-quarterfinals. Going into the match on Sunday, the 38-year-old superstar broke another Grand Slam record.
🇷🇸 Novak Djokovic now has the record in Slam for most: titles, finals, semifinals, quarterfinals, R16s, R32s, R64s 🐐
— TennisMyLife (@TennisMyLife68) August 30, 2025
Final Step, Mr. Bison: R128s#USOpen pic.twitter.com/5DkenU35WD
Novak Djokovic now holds the Grand Slam record for the most: titles, finals, semifinals, quarterfinals, Round of 16s, Round of 32s and Round of 64s. While his victory over Norrie has him tied with Roger Federer at 74 Third Round successes, the only remaining hurdle is the Round of 128. While Djokovic has 80 Grand Slam opening round wins to his name, Federer and Spanish legend Feliciano Lopez lead the chart with 81 wins each.
Speaking after his win, Djokovic had a lot of insights to offer. “Overall, it was probably the best serving performance of the tournament,” he said. Of course, I’m glad for that. It’s probably one of the most, if not, the most important shot in the game. So I’m glad [about] how I executed that shot.” The 2025 US Open marks two years since the Serb’s last Grand Slam success, at this very tournament.
Another electric night on Ashe. Bright lights, loud music, rap royalty in the crowd. Few tough moments but NYC your energy got me through 🙌. Time to Lean Back 😆 then forward to R4. pic.twitter.com/hbypF7o3M2
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) August 30, 2025
“Yeah, it’s alright,” remarked the experienced campaigner about his lower back issues during the match. “You have some ups and downs… You don’t want to reveal too much to the rivals listening and watching this interview. I’m good man, I’m as young as ever. Yes – it’s New York. Even if you’re feeling something body-wise, the energy that you’re feeling in this court just overrides it.”
How far will Novak Djokovic go in his quest for the elusive 25th major? Let’s wait and watch.
(Image Credits: Robert Deutsch, Imagn Images)
A passionate sports fan through and through, I am currently pursuing my MA in Global Sports Journalism. I specialise in tennis and football writing at The Playoffs News, and I have prior experience working at EssentiallySports and Sportskeeda. Born and raised in Bengaluru, India, sport was my safe space right from my childhood. After trying my hand at multiple sports and representing my educational institutions in cricket, badminton and table tennis, I found sports media to be my calling.
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