Djokovic Battles Pain to Reach US Open Quarterfinals, Sets Up Alcaraz Clash

When Novak Djokovic survived a nagging neck‑shoulder strain to dispatch Jan‑Lennard Struff 6‑3, 6‑3, 6‑2, the crowd at US Open got a reminder why the Serbian star still belongs in the conversation about the game’s all‑time greats.

The match unfolded on Sunday night, September 1, 2025, inside Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York City. In just under two hours (1 hour 49 minutes), Djokovic not only secured his record‑extending 64th Grand Slam quarter‑final appearance but also became the oldest player to reach the US Open quarters since Jimmy Connors in 1991.

How the Match Unfolded

Djokovic started the first set with a blistering 4‑0 lead. At 15‑love, after a crisp angled volley, he instinctively clasped the back of his neck and twisted his head. The injury‑related gesture raised eyebrows: his right shoulder and neck seemed to protest as he tried to stretch between points.

Between games, Clay Sniteman, the ATP’s on‑site physiotherapist, made several quick visits. He massaged the tender spot on Djokovic’s right shoulder‑neck junction after the first set and tended to the player’s forearm after the second.

Despite the discomfort, Djokovic re‑asserted control, dropping only two games to Struff, who entered the match on a high‑tempo run that included wins over Holger Rune and Frances Tiafoe. The Serbian’s experience shone through; his serve averaged 120 mph and his backhand slice stalled Struff’s rhythm.

Milestones and Records

At 38 years and 103 days, Djokovic joined a very exclusive club. He is the oldest quarter‑finalist at any major since Roger Federer’s 2021 Wimbledon run at 39, and only Jimmy Connors was older at the US Open.

His 2025 season reads like a résumé of ‘firsts’: winning his 100th ATP title, becoming the first player to claim a title in 20 consecutive years, and extending his Open‑Era tally to 262 wins over top‑10 opponents. He also pushed his Grand Slam match‑win record to 397 and topped hard‑court major victories at 194, nudging past Federer.

In Masters 1000 competition, Djokovic now holds 416 wins, overtaking Rafael Nadal’s previous mark of 410. He also logged at least 95 victories at each of the four Slams, a feat no one else has accomplished in the Open Era.

What the Experts Are Saying

Renowned commentator Mary Carillo felt the tension in the arena. “You could see the strain on his face, but his mind was elsewhere – it was all about the next point,” she told ESPN. “If anyone can push through a nagging injury at this stage, it’s Novak.”

Former world No. 1 Andy Murray added, “He’s managed his body like a chess player, always thinking two moves ahead. Tonight was a reminder that his hunger hasn’t faded.”

Road Ahead: Fritz, then Alcaraz

With the victory over Struff, Djokovic set his sights on fourth‑seeded American Taylor Fritz in the quarter‑finals on September 3. That clash produced another classic – Djokovic prevailed, booking his 53rd major semifinal and a showdown with 22‑year‑old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz.

After the Struff win, Djokovic addressed the roaring crowd: “I don’t know how many more I’ll have, so each one is special. Thank you for being here tonight.” His gratitude masked a deeper question – can he stay healthy enough to chase a fifth US Open crown?

Why This Matters Beyond the Court

The match illustrates the evolving narrative of longevity in tennis. A decade ago, few imagined a 38‑year‑old contesting Grand Slam semifinals regularly. Djokovic’s continued success forces the ATP to re‑evaluate player‑health protocols and perhaps even the calendar.

For the rest of the 2025 season, sponsors, broadcasters and fans will watch closely. A victory over Alcaraz would not only add a historic fifth US Open title to his résumé but also cement his claim as the sport’s most enduring champion.

Key Facts

• Score: Djokovic def. Struff 6‑3, 6‑3, 6‑2
• Duration: 1 hour 49 minutes
• Age: 38 years, 103 days (oldest US Open quarter‑finalist since 1991)
• Record: 64th Grand Slam quarter‑final, 53rd semifinal appearance
• Injury: Neck‑shoulder strain treated by ATP physiotherapist Clay Sniteman