Taylor Fritz enters Tuesday's US Open quarterfinal against Novak Djokovic with momentum that could finally break the Serbian's 10-0 head-to-head advantage. The American's recent form makes this clash at the year's final Grand Slam particularly intriguing.
Fritz has compiled an impressive 25-5 record in his last 30 matches dating back to the grass-court season, positioning himself as a legitimate threat. Last year's US Open finalist now ranks four spots higher than his legendary opponent, who sits at world #7.
"Djokovic isn't 'washed' as the kids say these days, but at 38, he's certainly not in his prime anymore," noted one tournament analyst after watching the Serb's earlier rounds.
Djokovic hasn't reached a major final since Wimbledon 2024 and has shown vulnerability during this fortnight in New York. Meanwhile, Fritz has displayed exceptional tennis that suggests he could at least capture two sets against the aging champion.
On the women's side, Jessica Pegula faces Barbora Krejcikova in another compelling quarterfinal matchup. The American, also a 2024 US Open finalist, thrives on home soil and brings consistent baseline play against a potentially fatigued opponent.
Krejcikova survived an epic fourth-round encounter against Taylor Townsend, saving eight match points in a grueling 3-hour, 4-minute marathon (1-6, 7-6(13), 6-3). Recovery from such a physical and emotional battle presents a significant challenge for the Czech veteran.
In another Tuesday quarterfinal, Carlos Alcaraz continues his dominant run against Jiri Lehecka. The five-time Grand Slam champion has steamrolled through the tournament without dropping a set and boasts a remarkable 43-2 record in his last 45 matches since the clay season began.
The Spanish superstar previously defeated Lehecka in their two prior meetings, including earlier this summer on grass at Queen's Club. Alcaraz's motivation peaks at majors, while Lehecka's lone previous Grand Slam quarterfinal ended in a straight-sets loss to Stefanos Tsitsipas at the 2023 Australian Open.
Can Fritz finally overcome his Djokovic hurdle? Tuesday's action will reveal if the changing of the guard continues at the 2025 US Open.
