Novak Djokovic makes history as oldest man to reach all four Grand Slam quarters in a season

Novak Djokovic made history at the US Open on Sunday, defeating German qualifier Jan-Lennard Struff 6-3, 6-3, 6-2 to become the oldest man, at 38, to reach the quarter-finals at all four Grand Slams in a single season. The straight-set win also propelled him into a record-extending 64th Grand Slam quarter-final, keeping alive his pursuit of a 25th major title.


Djokovic, the seventh seed, was in command throughout the 109-minute encounter, breaking Struff’s serve six times while winning 79% of his first-serve points. Although he required treatment for his right shoulder and forearm during changeovers, the Serbian showed little discomfort on court, maintaining sharpness and control from start to finish.



Struff, 35, came into the match riding momentum after upsetting three seeded players to reach his first US Open fourth round, but the world No. 144 was unable to seriously trouble the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Djokovic’s consistency from the baseline and serving efficiency ensured there was no opening for a late twist.


"It definitely helps if you serve well," Djokovic said. "I think I had a great serving performance last round and also tonight. That makes it easier on the court."

The victory marked Djokovic’s 14th trip to the last eight at Flushing Meadows and his 80th Grand Slam quarter-final appearance overall. Next, he faces fourth seed Taylor Fritz, the lone American remaining in the men’s draw and last year’s runner-up. Djokovic holds a dominant 10-0 head-to-head record over Fritz, including a straight-set win in the 2022 US Open quarter-finals.