Novak Djokovic overcame a spirited challenge from Cameron Norrie to reach the fourth round of the US Open with a 6-4, 6-7 (4), 6-2, 6-3 victory on Friday night. The 38-year-old Serb becomes the oldest man to reach the last 16 in New York since Jimmy Connors in 1991, and ties Roger Federer for the most grand slam fourth-round appearances with 69.
Djokovic, a 24-time grand slam champion, struggled with his movement and lower back issues during the match, calling for a medical timeout after the opening set. 'It's frustrating for me that I'm not able to feel 100% always like I have for 20-plus years,' he said. 'But I have to get used to the fact that every match there's something that might happen.'
Norrie, playing his first match on Arthur Ashe Stadium, pushed Djokovic hard, particularly in the second set tie-break. The Briton played more aggressively than usual, hitting powerful forehands to level the match. However, Djokovic raised his level in the final two sets, serving 18 aces and dictating play with relentless depth.
Norrie expressed frustration over Djokovic's slow play between points, but acknowledged it did not affect the outcome. 'I was just asking the umpire what's the rule every time I have to wait for him,' Norrie said. 'It was nothing to do with Novak.'
The victory gives Djokovic hope for the second week. 'These kind of matches always give me hope that I can go far, challenge the best players in the world,' he said. Norrie, meanwhile, takes confidence from pushing one of the sport's greats, having won only two sets in their seven meetings.
