The 10-time champion defeated Taylor Fritz 7-6 (3), 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 in 3 3/4 hours on Tuesday to get to the Australian Open quarterfinals for the 11th time.
He has won all ten of Melbourne Park’s semifinals and finals.
In his record-extending 48th Grand Slam semifinal, he will face either No. 4 Jannik Sinner or No. 5 Andrey Rublev. They began their quarterfinal at 10:42 p.m.
Novak Djokovic’s Melbourne journey, surpassing 15 hours on court, signals a unique Australian Open record. Despite a 33-match winning streak, Fritz posed challenges in a grueling match.
The initial game, lasting 16 minutes, set a tone of resilience. Fritz’s strategic play impressed Djokovic, admitting his struggle in the early sets. Djokovic’s form surged in the third set, refining his serves and overall gameplay.
Facing an unheard-of stat, Fritz defended 15 breakpoints initially. Djokovic acknowledged a poor conversion but praised his resilience, elevating his game midway through the third set.
The match unfolded under scorching 32-degree heat, adding to its intensity. Djokovic’s gestures and calls for salts highlighted the physical toll. The first set, with 24 points and nine deuces, became the tournament’s longest.
Despite Fritz’s commendable defense, Djokovic clinched the first set with a remarkable backhand. Fritz’s resilience continued, breaking Djokovic in the second set and maintaining the lead.
Djokovic’s prowess emerged in the third set, breaking Fritz twice and securing it in 38 minutes. The fourth set saw intense moments, with Fritz breaking back, but Djokovic’s consistency prevailed.
Fritz acknowledged Djokovic’s speed and precision, emphasizing the challenge of sustaining high-level play. Djokovic secured victory, advancing to the semifinals.
In a lighthearted moment, Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios bantered on court, suggesting a relaxed popcorn session to watch the upcoming semifinal between Sinner and Rublev.
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