Novak Djokovic continued his quest for a record-breaking 24th Grand Slam singles title by defeating Ben Shelton in straight sets in the US Open semifinals on Friday.
The top-seeded Djokovic, who is also chasing a 10th US Open title, won 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) to set up a final against either Carlos Alcaraz or Daniil Medvedev.
Djokovic was in complete control from the start, breaking Shelton’s serve in the first game of the match and never looking back. The Serbian star was dominant on his serve, winning 82% of his first-serve points and saving all four break points he faced.
Shelton, a 20-year-old American who was playing in his first Grand Slam semifinal, showed some flashes of brilliance but was ultimately no match for Djokovic. The Serbian star closed out the match in two hours and 13 minutes.
With the win, Djokovic improved to 27-10 in Grand Slam semifinals. He is now one win away from tying Rafael Nadal for the most Grand Slam titles in men’s singles history.
Djokovic is already tied with Nadal for the most career Grand Slam titles in the Open Era. A win at the US Open would give him the outright record and cement his legacy as the greatest tennis player of all time.
Djokovic has been on a tear in recent months, winning three of the four Grand Slam tournaments he has entered this year. He is the clear favorite to win the US Open and tie Nadal for the most Grand Slam titles.
The final will be played on Sunday. Djokovic will be looking to complete his quest for a record-breaking 24th Grand Slam title and cement his place in history.
Djokovic’s quest for 24 Grand Slam titles
Djokovic has won 20 Grand Slam singles titles, the second-most in men’s history. He has won nine Australian Open titles, two French Open titles, Wimbledon twice, and the US Open three times.
Djokovic is chasing Rafael Nadal’s record of 22 Grand Slam titles. Nadal won his 22nd Grand Slam title at the French Open earlier this year.
Djokovic has a chance to tie Nadal’s record at the US Open. He is the clear favorite to win the tournament and will be looking to make history.
Djokovic’s quest for 24 Grand Slam titles is one of the most compelling storylines in tennis. He is one of the greatest players of all time and has a chance to cement his legacy with another major title.