Djokovic and Alcaraz Set for Epic US Open Semi-Final
New York, September 2025
After a thrilling run at the US Open, Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz will collide in a blockbuster men’s singles semi-final—promising a showdown between tennis’s titanic generation and its exciting young star.
Djokovic's Gritty Victory Over Fritz
At 38, Djokovic continues to defy age with elite-level performances. He advanced to the semi-finals by edging out Taylor Fritz, the last American remaining in the draw, in a tense four-set battle: 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 .
He expressed pride in his fight, explaining, “It was an incredibly close match, really anybody’s match. Few points decide the winner.” .
Djokovic’s win also extended his flawless head-to-head record against Fritz to 11-0 and took him into his 53rd Grand Slam semi-final, a record-extending milestone . He has now reached the semi-finals at all four majors this year—the oldest man to do so in the Open Era .
Alcaraz Cruises Through to Semis
Earlier the same day, Carlos Alcaraz, the 22-year-old Spaniard, breezed into the semis with a commanding win over Jiří Lehečka, dropping just one set at 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 in under two hours .
Alcaraz did not face a single break point, highlighting his dominance. If he wins the tournament, he would become just the third man—alongside Björn Borg and Rafael Nadal—to win six Grand Slam singles titles before turning 23 and might regain the world No. 1 ranking .
A Clash of Generations
Djokovic vs. Alcaraz isn’t just a match—it symbolizes a passing of the torch. Djokovic, the seasoned veteran aiming for a record 25th major title, meets Alcaraz—currently the sport's most thrilling young talent—who remains undefeated in sets at Flushing Meadows .
Djokovic acknowledges Alcaraz’s stature, stating, “We know they are the two best players in the world… I'm going to try to mess up the plans of most of the people.” .
Women’s Semis and Other Highlights
Meanwhile, in the women’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the semi-finals via a walkover after Markéta Vondroušová withdrew due to a knee injury . She will face Jessica Pegula, who defeated Barbora Krejčíková in straight sets for her own semi-final berth .
Summary Snapshot:
| Match-Up | Details |
|---|---|
| Men’s Semi-Final | Novak Djokovic vs. Carlos Alcaraz – former champion vs. future star |
| Djokovic’s Path | Defeated Taylor Fritz 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4; 53rd Grand Slam semi, 11-0 vs Fritz |
| Alcaraz’s Path | Beat Jiri Lehečka 6-4, 6-2, 6-4; undefeated in sets; chasing world No. 1 |
| Women’s Semi-Final | Aryna Sabalenka vs. Jessica Pegula (Sabalenka advanced via walkover) |
If you'd like to explore analysis on their styles, potential strategies, or match predictions, I’m happy to dive deeper!
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