Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz have both advanced to the fourth round of the US Open, despite showing signs of injury during their matches.
Djokovic, aiming for a record 25th Grand Slam title, overcame a back issue to beat Britain’s Cameron Norrie in four sets – 6-4, 6-7(4), 6-2, 6-3. He needed medical treatment twice but recovered to take control in the final two sets. Norrie managed to level the match by winning the second set in a tiebreak, but Djokovic eventually proved too strong.
After the match, Djokovic admitted he’s still trying to find his rhythm after returning from a break since Wimbledon.
Carlos Alcaraz also cruised into the last 16 with a straight-sets win over Italy’s Luciano Darderi, 6-2, 6-4, 6-0. The Spaniard took a short medical timeout for a slight issue with his knee but said afterward it was only a precaution. He now faces France’s Arthur Rinderknech in the next round.
Alcaraz, last year’s champion, said he’s more motivated this year after his early exit in 2024 and remains focused on going deep in the tournament again.
