Djokovic Battles Injury to Beat Norrie and Reach US Open Fourth Round
Novak Djokovic fought through back pain to beat Cameron Norrie and reach the fourth round of the US Open, SportsRation reports.
The 24-time Grand Slam winner, who is aiming for a record-breaking 25th major title, overcame a tough challenge from Britain’s Norrie to win 6-4, 6-7 (4-7), 6-2, 6-3 in New York.
Djokovic, 38, struggled with a lower back injury in the first set and needed treatment during the match. He even left the court for a medical time-out early on but returned stronger.
“You want to win in straight sets with no drama – but that’s not always possible,” Djokovic joked after the match.
“My team says I need to suffer a bit more on court. From that point of view, today was good!”
Despite looking vulnerable in his earlier matches, Djokovic showed his best form of the tournament so far against Norrie.
He hit 18 aces – the most he’s ever managed at the US Open – and dominated with his powerful serve, which helped shorten rallies and limit Norrie’s chances.
“Serving well makes life easier,” Djokovic said.
“It’s probably the most important shot in the game, and I’m happy with how I used it today.”
This was his first tournament since losing in the Wimbledon semi-finals seven weeks ago, and although his fitness isn’t perfect, Djokovic says he’s still confident:
“You have ups and downs, but you don’t want to show too much to your opponents,” he said.
“I feel as young and strong as ever.”
Norrie Impressed But Couldn’t Keep Up
Cameron Norrie, 30, briefly led after breaking Djokovic early in the third set but couldn’t maintain the pressure.
“I started the third set well, but maybe I got a little overconfident,” Norrie admitted.
“He played really well and was just too good in the end.”
This was Norrie’s seventh loss in seven meetings with Djokovic, but he still sees positives. Earlier this year, he was struggling with injury and form and was close to falling out of the world’s top 100. Now, he’s had strong runs at the French Open and Wimbledon.
“It’s been a fun tournament. I wouldn’t change anything,” said Norrie.
“There’s still so much to smile about.”
