US Open: Alcaraz, Djokovic Eye Semifinal Showdown as Sabalenka Chases Title Defense

Posted : 02 September 2025

Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic are on course for a blockbuster semifinal clash at the US Open, while Aryna Sabalenka looks to strengthen her title defense on Tuesday’s action-packed schedule.

Alcaraz vs. Lehecka

Second seed Carlos Alcaraz enters the quarterfinals without dropping a set, as he aims for his second US Open crown and sixth career Grand Slam. The 22-year-old Spaniard will face Czech 20th seed Jiri Lehecka, who is appearing in the last eight of a major for only the second time.

Lehecka, who has split two previous meetings with Alcaraz, knows the magnitude of the challenge ahead. “Against a player like Carlos, you need to bring your best. He’s one of the two biggest challenges in tennis right now,” Lehecka said.

The winner of this encounter will meet either 24-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic or American hopeful Taylor Fritz.

Djokovic vs. Fritz

Djokovic, last year’s US Open finalist, has dominated Fritz in their rivalry, winning all 10 of their past meetings. The Serbian arrives on the back of his best performance of the fortnight against Jan-Lennard Struff, but questions linger over his physical durability at 38 years old.

Fritz, seeded fourth and the only American man left in the draw, remains optimistic despite the odds. “Hopefully the crowd is going to get behind me because I am the last American guy,” he said. Djokovic, however, acknowledged Fritz’s potential: “Taylor has the game to be a Grand Slam winner … hopefully not this year, but any other year is fine.”

Sabalenka’s Title Defense

On the women’s side, top seed Aryna Sabalenka continues her quest to become the first woman since Serena Williams (2012–2014) to retain the US Open title. The world No. 1 will open the night session against former Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova.

Sabalenka has embraced the weight of expectation. “Pressure is part of our lives. I’m enjoying being world No. 1 and working really hard to stay here. For me, it’s a fun life if you enjoy your job,” she said.

Pegula and Krejcikova in Action

Jessica Pegula begins the day session against Barbora Krejcikova, who staged a dramatic comeback in the last round by saving eight match points against Taylor Townsend. Krejcikova is relishing her return after a back injury left her sidelined earlier in the season. “Just four months ago, I didn’t know if I’d ever be back. This is very special for me,” she said.

Pegula, meanwhile, admitted she rediscovered her focus with a lighter approach. “I felt terrible coming into this tournament. Then I went to an escape room with friends, had two drinks, and realized I just needed to relax,” she revealed.

With Alcaraz, Djokovic, Sabalenka, Pegula, and Krejcikova all in action, Tuesday’s matches promise high drama in New York.

US Open: Alcaraz, Djokovic Eye Semifinal Showdown as Sabalenka Chases Title Defense

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