US Open 2023 Recap: Novak Djokovic’s Masterclass Puts Him One Step Closer to History
In a dazzling display of skill and experience, Novak Djokovic, at the age of 36, showed the world why he’s considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time. In a semifinal clash at the US Open 2023, Djokovic swept aside the young American sensation, Ben Shelton, in straight sets: 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (7-4). With this commanding victory, Djokovic is now just one win away from claiming his 24th major title, which would equal the record held by the legendary Margaret Court.
Djokovic’s dominance on the court was evident from the start. He employed his signature blend of technique, mentality, and athleticism to overpower his opponent. The match began with Djokovic serving smartly and returning Shelton’s shots with precision, quickly establishing control. Shelton’s forehand errors and a critical drop-shot into the net allowed Djokovic to take a 4-2 lead in the first set.
Although Shelton fought off three set points at 5-2 and even created a break opportunity at 5-3, Djokovic’s focus remained unwavering as he closed out the first set. It was in this moment that Djokovic let out a rare burst of emotion, roaring with delight to the delight of the Ashe crowd.
The second set saw Djokovic maintaining his calm and control. In the fifth game, Shelton’s nerves got the better of him as he double-faulted, gifting Djokovic the break. Djokovic continued his dominance by winning the final five games of the set, leaving the home fans in awe.
The third set began with Shelton taking a trip to the locker room, hoping to change the momentum. However, Djokovic remained relentless, breaking Shelton in the first game with a sublime passing winner. While it seemed Djokovic would cruise to victory in straight sets, Shelton summoned his best form and broke back to force a tie-break.
In the tie-break, Shelton had a set point at 5-4, which Djokovic saved with a pinpoint service winner. Djokovic’s intensity soared once more, and he clinched victory with his second match point.
This victory sets up a potential rematch between Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open final. Alcaraz, the defending champion, faces Daniil Medvedev in the second semifinal. Djokovic lost to Medvedev in the 2021 final but was unable to participate in the tournament last year due to Covid-19 vaccination requirements. Now, Djokovic stands on the cusp of history, aiming for his fourth US Open title.
Novak Djokovic, ever the competitor, shared his thoughts after the match, saying, “These are the matches and occasions I thrive on, they inspire me every day to keep working as hard as the young guys. I still feel I have something left in the legs and something to give to the sport. I couldn’t be happier.”
Djokovic’s ability to dominate much younger opponents on the biggest stages has become a hallmark of his greatness. In the past five seasons, he has lost only eight of the 53 matches he has played against opponents under the age of 23. Only Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev, at the 2021 US Open, have managed to beat him in a major final since 2020.
As Djokovic continues to defy age and expectations, the tennis world eagerly awaits the US Open final, where he will strive to etch his name in history alongside Margaret Court as one of the all-time greats of the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about US Open 2023
Q: Who did Novak Djokovic defeat to reach the US Open final in 2023?
A: Novak Djokovic defeated the young American talent, Ben Shelton, in the semifinals of the US Open 2023 to secure his spot in the final.
Q: How many major titles does Novak Djokovic aim to equal with a victory in the US Open 2023 final?
A: Novak Djokovic aims to equal Margaret Court’s record of 24 major titles if he wins the US Open 2023 final.
Q: What was the score of the match between Novak Djokovic and Ben Shelton in the US Open 2023 semifinals?
A: Novak Djokovic won the match against Ben Shelton with a score of 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) in the US Open 2023 semifinals.
Q: Who might Novak Djokovic potentially face in the US Open 2023 final?
A: Novak Djokovic could potentially face Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open 2023 final, setting up a rematch of their clash in the Wimbledon final earlier in the year.
Q: How many US Open titles has Novak Djokovic won prior to the 2023 tournament?
A: Novak Djokovic has won the US Open three times prior to the 2023 tournament, and he is aiming for his fourth title.
More about US Open 2023
- US Open 2023 Official Website
- Novak Djokovic’s Career Statistics
- Margaret Court’s Grand Slam Record
- Carlos Alcaraz’s Wimbledon Victory
- Daniil Medvedev’s Major Titles
- Novak Djokovic’s Dominance Over Young Opponents
