Novak Djokovic Cruises Into US Open Final: Closes The Door On Ben Shelton

Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic

Serbian great Novak Djokovic defeated Ben Shelton in straight sets to cruise comfortably into the US Open finals. His experience put paid to the youthful exuberance of Shelton and the American dream. A capacity crowd at the Arthur Ashe Stadium watched their favorite local boy get a lesson in cold clinical finishing and calculating approach to the match.

It was the fourth Slam final of the season for Novak Djokovic after the straight sets win over Ben Shelton 6-3, 6-2, 7-6(4), in 2 hours 40 minutes. However, his action at the end did not endear him to American fans. The 23-times Grand Slam winner can expect some hostile crowds at the end though he will be facing Daniil Medvedev at Flushing Meadows on Sunday.

Novak Djokovic has of late turned his focus on the grand slam tournaments as he prioritizes his energy at 36. And his plans are succeeding. It is his fourth grand slam final of 2023. The Serb has already bagged the Australian and the French Open this year while finishing runners-up at Wimbledon.

Novak Djokovic Sends Clear Message

Novak Djokovic required 2 hours and 40 minutes to beat the young Shelton. Throughout the game, he controlled the pace of the game and never allowed the 20-year-old American to play his hard, relentless game. It will be the 36th Major final for the Djoker. It extends the record and sets him in line to win his 4th title in New York. He has already won 3 of his last 9 title games.

Novak Djokovic negated Ben Shelton’s booming serves and he was reduced to just a couple of aces. In the rallies, Novak controlled the pace and never allowed Shelton’s pace to control the game. He finally clinched the set after climbing to 4-5 following an error by Shelton. Djokovic earned his second match point after a long rally at the net. He converted to set up a much-anticipated final with the Russian ace.