Novak Djokovic schooled Croat Borna Gojo 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 on Sunday to take his accustomed place in the second week of the US Open.
The Serb second seed reached his 13th quarter-final at the last Grand Slam of the season as he overcame the qualifier who played university tennis at Wake Forest in North Carolina.
Djokovic, 36, completed his 98th match at Flushing Meadows, where he owns three titles, the last earned in 2018.
Gojo came into the match of his life without the loss of a set but was quickly schooled by the 23-time Grand Slam champion in two and a half hours.
Djokovic moved through on his third match point as he delivered his 12th ace; the winner had just 13 unforced errors against his 105th-ranked opponent.
“These night sessions are really very, very special,” he said in victory.”I appreciate the support.
“I knew Borna has a big game, has a lot of weapons and moves well for big guy.
“But it was best of five sets and I was able to manage my energy and focus on accuracy with my serve.”
Djokovic added: “I did well in the important moments, I’m glad to get through in straight sets.”
Djokovc plays for a semi-final spot against one of three Americans in the last eight, Taylor Fritz, who is joined by countrymen Frances Tiafoe and newcomer Ben Shelton.
“Having three from the USA is amazing for American tennis,” Djokovic said. ”
“The matches will simply get tougher for me from now on. But I’m ready for the challenge, it should be great.”
Main photo:- Novak Djokovic celebrates his 98th US Open victory – by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd.
