Djokovic Advances to US Open Quarterfinals Despite Neck Discomfort
NEW YORK (AP) – Novak djokovic overcame a brief concern for his physical well-being to defeat Jan-lennard Struff in straight sets Sunday, securing his place in the quarterfinals of the 2024 U.S. Open. The victory extends Djokovic’s perfect head-to-head record against struff to 8-0.
The match wasn’t without a momentary pause for the 37-year-old Serbian star, as he received treatment from a trainer during changeovers for discomfort in his neck and shoulder. This latest attention from medical staff comes during a tournament where Djokovic has already sought assistance for blisters on his foot and a lower-back issue, raising questions about his physical condition as he pursues a record-extending 24th Grand Slam title.Djokovic won with scores of 6-4, 6-3, 6-4. Despite the mid-match attention, his play appeared unaffected, as he efficiently closed out the match against the 21st-seeded Struff.
Looking ahead, Djokovic will face 2024 U.S. Open runner-up Taylor Fritz in Tuesday’s quarterfinal. Fritz, the last remaining American man in the tournament, advanced with a 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 win over tomas Machac of the Czech Republic. Djokovic holds a 10-0 head-to-head advantage over Fritz.
Djokovic has previously won four U.S. Open championships, most recently in 2023.