During the US Open semifinals, there was a fleeting moment when Novak Djokovic seemed in control against Carlos Alcaraz.
In the early stages of the second set, less than an hour into the match at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Djokovic displayed the form that has earned him 24 Grand Slam titles and more weeks at No. 1 in the rankings than any other player.
He successfully returned a 132 mph serve, winning the point and securing his first break opportunity. He capitalized on this by winning a nine-stroke rally, marking only the second time Alcaraz lost a service game in the tournament. With this, Djokovic took a 2-0 lead in that set. Fans erupted with cheers, chanting his nickname, “No-le! No-le!”
In that brief time, the 38-year-old didn’t show his age or appear destined to lose. However, the lead didn’t last long.
Alcaraz regained momentum and secured a 6-4, 7-6 (4), 6-2 win over a fatigued Djokovic in less than 2 1/2 hours. This was Djokovic’s fourth major semifinal this season, and the fourth time he didn’t advance further.
“I’m not giving up on Grand Slams. … I’m going to continue fighting and trying to get to the finals and fight for another trophy, at least,” Djokovic stated, expressing his desire to become the first player with 25 major singles titles. “But, you know, it’s going to be a very difficult task.”
Djokovic’s semifinal losses in 2025 were primarily against top-ranked Jannik Sinner, who is 24, and No. 2 Alcaraz, who is 22. He also withdrew after one set against Alexander Zverev at the Australian Open due to a hamstring injury.
“Unfortunately, I ran out of gas after the second set,” Djokovic explained about the match. “I had enough energy to compete for two sets, but after that, I was exhausted, and he continued strong.”
He acknowledged the challenge of keeping pace with younger opponents in lengthy five-set matches during major tournaments.
Djokovic finds this frustrating, yet not entirely unexpected.
“It comes with time and with age,” he remarked. “I still enjoy the thrill of competition. Today, the crowd’s support was amazing, and I am grateful for that. It’s one of the main reasons I keep going. The global support I’ve received in recent years has been incredible.”
