Jannik Sinner brushed off a slight injury concern to return to the US Open final and set up a blockbuster clash with Carlos Alcaraz, with the young rivals to compete in their third grand slam final in a row on Sunday and with the World No 1 ranking on the line.
After Alcaraz had little problem beating Novak Djokovic in straight sets earlier in the day, defending champion Sinner was pushed hard by 25th seed Felix Auger-Aliassime and looked to be in some trouble when he took a medical timeout after losing the second set.
Sinner prevailed to extend his winning streak at the hard-court grand slams to 27 matches, winning 6-1 3-6 6-3 6-2. The Italian, who is aiming to become the first man to retain the US Open since Roger Federer in 2008, said his injury was “nothing serious”.
Earlier, Djokovic admitted young rivals Alcaraz and Sinner are “too good” after the Spaniard denied the 38-year-old in his latest bid to win a 25th grand slam title and booked his place in the US Open final with a 6-4 7-6 6-2 victory.
“I lost three out of four slams in semis against these guys, so they're just too good, playing on a really high level,” Djokovic said. “Best-of-five makes it very, very difficult for me to play them. Particularly if it's like the end stages of the grand slam.”
Follow the latest scores, updates, analysis and reaction from the US Open below
US Open LIVE: Latest scores and updates
- Novak Djokovic brushed aside as Carlos Alcaraz denies dream of 25th grand slam
- Alcaraz 'not at his best' but wins 6-4 7-6 6-2 to return to US Open final
- Djokovic admits Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner 'too good' at the grand slams
- Sinner defeats Felix Auger-Alliassime in four sets to return to US Open final
- Sinner says possible injury is 'nothing serious' after taking medical timeout
- Amanda Anisimova sets up Aryna Sabalenka final in women's singles
Jannik Sinner proud of consistency after reaching US Open final
17:55 , Jamie BraidwoodJannik Sinner is proud of reaching five grand slam finals in a row as he looks to defend his US Open title.
“Five straight Grand Slam finals, it's something great,” he said. “The consistency and putting myself there in the later stages of the biggest tournaments we have, it's amazing.
“But in the same time, I know it's in the back of my head, whatever I'm doing, but in the same time whatever is done is done. I'm here. I have a very important day Sunday, and then we see.”
Sinner will also bid for a 28th consecutive win at the hard-court grand slams and try to become the first player to defend the US Open men’s title since Roger Federer in 2008.
Jannik Sinner reveals where he thinks Carlos Alcaraz has improved
17:30 , Jamie Braidwood“He has improved a lot the serve. I feel like he's serving much better with the better pace, but the percentage is very high all the time. Much more solid, you know, for example, because maybe before there were more ups and downs. Now he's very consistent.
“Also, if you watch all the tournaments, he's going very, very far. So many, many improvements. But I always say that when you are young, you know, one year or two years, they make big difference.”
Jannik Sinner looks ahead to US Open final and facing Carlos Alcaraz again
17:00 , Jamie Braidwood“On court we like to see each other because it means that considering our ranking, it means that we are doing well in the tournament.
“Off court we bump into each other at times. I don't know if we are happy or not, but no, I think it's great. As I always say, we have a great relationship also off the court, and everything is fine, you know, between him and me and also all teams.
“My team and their team, we are just working hard, but in the same time we are also normal, normal people. It's great. So, yeah, I'm looking forward to it.”
Carlos Alcaraz pinpoints where Jannik Sinner has improved
16:00 , Jamie Braidwood“I think physically he has improved a lot, and that's obvious. I mean, it wasn't a secret. He has spoken about the physical conditions that he has to improve, and I think the last year, the last two years, he has improved a lot physically.
“His matches are really demanding physically that he's able to play at his 100 per cent during two, three, four hours, and I think that's the biggest improvement he has made in the last years.”
Carlos Alcaraz on the prospect of playing on front of Donald Trump
15:00 , Jamie Braidwood“It is a privilege for the tournaments having the president from every country, just to support the tournament, to support tennis, and to support the match.
“For me, playing in front of him, I will try not to be focused [on him], and I will try not to think about it.
“I don't want myself to be nervous because of it, but I think, you know, attending the tennis match, it's great for tennis to have the president into the final.”
The key Carlos Alcaraz difference that could define historic Jannik Sinner trilogy
14:07 , Jamie BraidwoodIn a sport that relies so much upon the ability to reset, after every point, game, set, match and tournament, two men have separated themselves from the rest. Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner meet for the US Open title and in their third grand slam final in a row on Sunday, becoming the first players in the Open era to face each other in three consecutive grand slam tournaments in the same year.
The key Carlos Alcaraz difference that could define historic Jannik Sinner trilogy
Trump set to make US Open return and attend men’s final
14:00 , Jamie BraidwoodPresident Donald Trump is set to attend the US Open men’s final on Sunday, marking a return to the tournament for the first time in 10 years.
The White House has confirmed the visit and Trump will be the first sitting president to attend a US Open final since Bill Clinton in 2000.
Trump used to be a regular visitor to the US Open in New York, but has not attended the tournament since he was booed in 2015, a few months after launching his presidential campaign.
'Mature' Carlos Alcaraz delighted with his consistency
13:00 , Jamie BraidwoodCarlos Alcaraz has not dropped a set do far at the US Open and is delighted with his consistency at the tournament.
“It's something that I'm working on, just the consistency on the matches, on the tournaments, on the year in general,” he said. “Just not having up-and-downs in the match. Just the level that I start the match, just wanted to keep that level really high during the whole match.
“So I'm thinking I'm doing that in this tournament, which I'm really proud about.”
Carlos Alcaraz is a final away from history
12:00 , Jamie BraidwoodCarlos Alcaraz has reached the final of a tournament for the eighth time in a row. The consistency from the 22-year-old is superb.
No man has ever won the US Open without losing a set.
Alcaraz is a also a straight-sets win in the final away from doing so.
Djokovic admits it is 'difficult' to win grand slams against Alcaraz and Sinner
11:00 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic admitted that while he is not giving up on his bid to win a 25th grand slam, and confirmed he plans to appear at all four major tournaments next season, he expects Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner to be too good to defeat in the future over best-of-five.
“It will be very difficult for me in the future to overcome the hurdle of Sinner, Alcaraz, in the best-of-five on the Grand Slams. I think I have a better chance best-of-three, but best-of-five, it's tough,” Djokovic said.
“I'm not giving up on Grand Slams in that regard, having said that. I'm going to continue fighting and trying to get to the finals and fight for another trophy at least. But, you know, it's going to be a very difficult task.”
Novak Djokovic admits Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner 'too good' at the grand slams
10:00 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic has admitted that the level of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner is currently “too good” for him to win grand slam titles.
Djokovic lost to Alcaraz in straight-sets in the US Open semi-finals, following straight-sets defats to Sinner at the French Open and Wimbledon.
Speaking a few moments ago, Djokovic said: “I lost three out of four slams in semis against these guys, so they're just too good, playing on a really high level.
“Unfortunately, I ran out of gas after the second set. I think I had enough energy to battle him and to keep up with his rhythm for two sets. After that I was gassed out, and he kept going.
“That's kind of what I felt this year also with Jannik. Yeah, best-of-five makes it very, very difficult for me to play them. Particularly if it's like the end stages of the Grand Slam.”
Djokovic expects Alcaraz and Sinner to keep improving
09:00 , Jamie Braidwood“It's expected that the young guys are improving,” Djokovic said. “These two players are the best in the world right now. If you're not improving, then something is not right, so you have to adapt to that and make changes.
“But they seem to have very good team, very good strategy of training and approach to the tennis world. The results are a testament to that. So there is no doubt that they are better and better each year.”
Novak Djokovic’s new reality painfully exposed in familiar US Open exit
08:00 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic cracked a wide smile on the big stage and licked his lips. He was exactly where he wanted to be as he duelled with young rival Carlos Alcaraz in their US Open semi-final, the muscle memory ingrained within the 24-time grand slam champion taking over.
Djokovic won two outstanding points in the second-set tiebreak, defying his age to outmanoeuvre his younger opponent and he sensed his opportunity to strike.
At 38, Djokovic was determined to enjoy the battle and take nothing for granted.
But then, reality and time hit him like a train.
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Novak Djokovic’s new reality painfully exposed in familiar US Open exit
Jannik Sinner books historic final meeting with Carlos Alcaraz
07:00 , Jamie BraidwoodJannik Sinner will take on Carlos Alcaraz in a historic third straight grand slam final after fighting off the challenge of Felix Auger-Aliassime at the US Open.
For the first time in the open era, two men will meet each other in three major finals in the same season, with Sinner and Alcaraz achieving levels of dominance not even seen at the height of the Roger Federer-Rafael Nadal duopoly.
After Alcaraz comfortably saw off Novak Djokovic, Sinner was given a test by Canadian Auger-Aliassime, who was playing in his second grand slam semi-final, but the world number one pulled away to win 6-1 3-6 6-3 6-4.
Jannik Sinner books historic final meeting with Carlos Alcaraz
Jannik Sinner insists nothing to worry about after feeling 'small twitch'
06:16 , Jamie Braidwood“I just felt a small twitching after a serve when I served there in the second set on 4-3,” Sinner said. “After the treatment, was feeling much, much better. At some point I didn't feel anything anymore. I was serving back to normal pace, so it was all good. Nothing to worry about.”
Sinner said he felt the switch in his stomach area.
Jannik Sinner provides injury update ahead of US Open final with Carlos Alcaraz
06:00 , Jamie BraidwoodJannik Sinner brushed off any injury concerns ahead of his US Open final showdown against Carlos Alcaraz after battling to victory against Felix Auger-Aliassime in the semi-finals.
Sinner took a medical timeout after Auger-Aliassime won the second set to level the match, with the World No 1 pointing to his abdomen and heading off the court for treatment.
The 24-year-old jogged back onto the court following the timeout and steadied the ship as his usual serve and forehand speed returned, navigating some difficult moments against Auger-Aliassime to win in four.
Jannik Sinner provides injury update ahead of US Open final with Carlos Alcaraz
World No 1 ranking also on the line in US Open final
05:30 , Jamie BraidwoodThe World No 1 ranking will also be on the line when Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz meet in the US Open final. Whoever wins the title, gets the spot.
Sinner has held the No 1 spot since June 2024, while Alcaraz has not been top of the rankings since July 2023.
Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz to meet again at US Open, three years on
05:00 , Jamie BraidwoodJannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz played a memorable five-setter at the US Open in 2022, which Alcaraz won late into the night as he went on to win his first grand slam.
Three years later, the young rivals will meet again with the World No 1 ranking on the line.
“I feel like our rivalry started here… Playing an amazing match. We are two different players now. Different confidence too. Let’s see what’s coming.
“We’ve played quite a lot this year. We know each other very well. Let’s see who’s preparing in the best possible way. But in any case it has been an amazing tournament again. An amazing feeling to come here on more time to play in front of you guys. I’m looking forward to it.”
Jannik Sinner only fourth man to reach all four grand slam finals in same year
04:36 , Jamie BraidwoodJannik Sinner is the fourth man in the Open era to reach all four grand slam finals in the same year, joining Rod Laver, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
He says: “Amazing season. Grand slams are the most important tournaments we have throughout the year. Finding myself in another final here, with an amazing crowd, doesn’t matter when you play. It doesn’t get any better.”
Jannik Sinner praises Felix Auger-Aliassime after US Open semi-final
04:16 , Jamie BraidwoodSinner was pushed hard by Auger-Aliassime tonight and the World No 1 had some kind words for his opponent, who had returned to the US Open semi-final after a couple of difficult years.
Sinner had easily defeated Auger-Aliassime in Cincinnati a few weeks ago and says: “Me and Felix played the last tournament. He’s a completely different player. Serving much better. Hitting every shot much better. It was a tough match today.
“Obviously very very happy. I saw him maybe a bit injured at some point. Hopefully it’s nothing bad. I wish him all the best. He’s an amazing player and amazing person. Always nice to share a match with him.”
Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz set up US Open final
04:12 , Jamie BraidwoodFor the first time in the Open era, the same two men will play each other in three grand slam finals in a row in the same season.
After the French Open and Wimbledon, with have the third chapter of Carlos Alcaraz v Jannik Sinner to come on Sunday.
When is the US Open men’s final? Alcaraz v Sinner start time and how to watch
Jannik Sinner through to US Open final
04:01 , Jamie BraidwoodJannik Sinner has reached the finals of all four grand slams in the same year!
Sinner brushes off his injury timeout and says: “It’s nothing too bad, I served after a bit faster again. It’s nothing serious. No excuses. Sunday is an amazing final again so let’s see.”
GAME, SET AND MATCH! Jannik Sinner 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 Felix Auger-Aliassime
03:57 , Jamie BraidwoodSinner gets a couple of cheap points from Auger-Aliassime, who looks to be cramping late in the match to move two away. But a double fault from Sinner will raise the nerves a little.
Auger-Aliassime goes out on the return! Match point to Sinner. Auger-Aliassime fires long and there’s relief for Sinner! He’s back in the US Open final!
*Jannik Sinner 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, 5-4 Felix Auger-Aliassime
03:52 , Jamie BraidwoodThat’s a great hold from Auger-Aliassime, who slams two smashes after great defence from Sinner.
Sinner made some sensational returns but Auger-Aliassime holds the Italian off.
Sinner will now serve for the final.
*Jannik Sinner 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, 4-3 Felix Auger-Aliassime
03:42 , Jamie BraidwoodHere comes Sinner again... he finds a brilliant backhand lob to leave Auger-Aliassime stranded at the net. Sinner will have two break points.
Auger-Aliassime holds him of! He finds the big wide serve and forehand to the opposite side. Forehand winner from Auger-Aliassime!
That’s a great save.
*Jannik Sinner 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, 3-2 Felix Auger-Aliassime
03:32 , Jamie BraidwoodWouldn’t you just know it. After fending off Auger-Aliassime, Sinner strikes to break in the very next game.
Auger-Aliassime double-faulted up 30-15, but then Sinner played two sublime points to break. He painted the lines, bringing his best level for the big moment, and eventually Auger-Aliassime floats long.
A huge fist-pump from Sinner.
Jannik Sinner 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, 2-2 Felix Auger-Aliassime*
03:26 , Jamie BraidwoodINCREDIBLE game!
Somehow, Sinner survives three break points to hold! Auger-Aliassime was an inch away from the break, but Sinner caught the line with a backhand angled pass.
Credit to Auger-Aliassime for how he pushed, but that’s a golden opportunity gone.
Sinner, though, is feeling the strain.
Jannik Sinner 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, 1-1 Felix Auger-Aliassime*
03:07 , Jamie BraidwoodSinner faced 15-40 as Auger-Aliassime had two break points.
Sinner responds with three aces in a row, then comes out on top in the forehand exchange to hold.
Jannik Sinner 6-1 3-6 6-3 Felix Auger-Aliassime*
02:56 , Jamie BraidwoodIt’s roles reversed ahead of the fourth set as Auger-Aliassime jogs back onto the court after taking a medical timeout.
That’s where Sinner was following the second. Has the World No 1 turned the tide or can Auger-Aliassime respond again?
THIRD SET! Jannik Sinner 6-1 3-6 6-3 Felix Auger-Aliassime*
02:49 , Jamie BraidwoodSinner is back on steadier ground as he holds to take the third set.
But that was the strangest game from Auger-Aliassime, who dawdles into the net attempting a rush volley and then floats a slice wide.
Auger-Aliassime misses the backhand return and Sinner retakes the lead.
Jannik Sinner 6-1 3-6 5-2 Felix Auger-Aliassime*
02:41 , Jamie BraidwoodSinner looks back, or is just gritting his teeth and dragging himself over the line.
He races to reach a short ball from Auger-Aliassime and crushes the backhand winner!
BREAK! *Jannik Sinner 6-1 3-6 4-2 Felix Auger-Aliassime
02:37 , Jamie BraidwoodAn absolute nightmare of a service game from Auger-Aliassime that starts with a double-fault. He then shanks a forehand after Sinner finds depth and power to the baseline to bring up two break points.
Sinner takes it! The Italian produces a lob that catches the back of the baseline. Sinner’s coaches yell in delight and try to get the 24-year-old going. He is still in some tricky waters.
Jannik Sinner 6-1 3-6 3-2 Felix Auger-Aliassime*
02:30 , Jamie BraidwoodAuger-Aliassime previously reached the US Open semi-finals in 2021 but has struggled for form in recent years, going out in the first round of the tournament in 2023 and 2024.
He also lost 6-0 6-2 to Sinner in Cincinnati, but is now taking it to the World No 1, going big on forehand after forehand.
Sinner comes through another tricky game, having been 15-30 down.
*Jannik Sinner 6-1 3-6 1-1 Felix Auger-Aliassime
02:15 , Jamie BraidwoodBig hold from Auger-Aliassime in a brilliant game! Sinner threw everything he had at Auger-Aliassime there and came away with back-to-back backhand winners.
The Canadian replies with some huge hitting of his own.
Jannik Sinner 6-1 3-6 1-0 Felix Auger-Aliassime*
02:09 , Jamie BraidwoodSinner takes the opening game but the Italian has struggled on serve today. His first-serve percentage had been 57% coming into tonight’s semi-final, but it’s down at 45% now.
Jannik Sinner 6-1 3-6 Felix Auger-Aliassime
02:05 , Jamie BraidwoodSinner has just jogged back onto the court, so that is perhaps a good sign.
But it is a match, it did not look that way when Sinner won the opening set 6-1.
SECOND SET! Jannik Sinner 6-1 3-6 Felix Auger-Aliassime
01:58 , Jamie BraidwoodIncredible! Auger-Aliassime slams back-to-back aces to take the second set against Sinner, who has called the trainer and is heading off the court!
It looks like his abdominal.
Auger-Aliassime has won 12 of the last 13 points.
BREAK! Jannik Sinner 6-1 3-5 Felix Auger-Aliassime*
01:56 , Jamie BraidwoodWow! Auger-Aliassime sets up three break points and takes the second with a brilliant inside-out forehand winner!
He will now serve for the set.
*Jannik Sinner 6-1 3-4 Felix Auger-Aliassime
01:50 , Jamie BraidwoodIt’s been an impressive response from Felix Auger-Aliassime, who is making this second set competitive. The Canadian is serving well and holds to love to move 4-3 ahead, on serve.
There’s a roar from Auger-Aliassime, who has come from a set down a couple of times during the tournament and has a strong tiebreak record.
FIRST SET! Jannik Sinner 6-1 Felix Auger-Aliassime*
01:20 , Jamie BraidwoodTotal authority from Jannik Sinner. Despite a couple of long games on serve, he takes a decisive first set to lead Felix Auger-Aliassime.
Jannik Sinner 4-1 Felix Auger-Aliassime*
01:00 , Jamie BraidwoodSo far, so good for Jannik Sinner as he bids to return to the US Open semi-final. he takes the opening break against Felix Auger-Aliassime.
Jannik Sinner v Felix Auger-Aliassime up next
Saturday 6 September 2025 00:33 , Jamie BraidwoodIt’s time for the second men’s semi-final, between Jannik Sinner and Felix Auger-Aliassime.
Auger-Aliassime won his first two matches against Sinner but those both came in 2022, before Sinner’s big breakthrough.
The World No 1 thrashed Auger-Aliassime 6-2 6-0 in the Cincinnati Open quarter-finals just a couple of weeks ago.
Djokovic also expects Alcaraz and Sinner to keep improving
Saturday 6 September 2025 00:17 , Jamie Braidwood“t's expected that the young guys are improving,” Djokovic said. “These two players are the best in the world right now. If you're not improving, then something is not right, so you have to adapt to that and make changes.
“But they seem to have very good team, very good strategy of training and approach to the tennis world. The results are a testament to that. So there is no doubt that they are better and better each year.”
'Time and age' catches up with Novak Djokovic
Saturday 6 September 2025 00:02 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic said it is “expected” that he is no longer able to keep up with Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
“It's frustrating on the court when you are not able to keep up with that level physically, but at the same time, it's something also expected, I guess. It comes with time and with age.”
Djokovic admits it is 'difficult' to win grand slams against Alcaraz and Sinner
Friday 5 September 2025 23:46 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic admitted that while he is not giving up on his bid to win a 25th grand slam, and confirmed he plans to appear at all four major tournaments next season, he expects Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner to be too good to defeat in the future over best-of-five.
“It will be very difficult for me in the future to overcome the hurdle of Sinner, Alcaraz, in the best-of-five on the Grand Slams. I think I have a better chance best-of-three, but best-of-five, it's tough,” Djokovic said.
“I'm not giving up on Grand Slams in that regard, having said that. I'm going to continue fighting and trying to get to the finals and fight for another trophy at least. But, you know, it's going to be a very difficult task.”
Novak Djokovic without a grand slam final this season
Friday 5 September 2025 23:31 , Jamie BraidwoodAfter four defeats in a row at grand slam semi-finals, Novak Djokovic ends his grand slam season without a title and without a final.
It’s only the second time since 2009 that Djokovic has not reached a grand slam final in a season.
It’s the second year in a row that Djokovic has gone without a grand slam title, mostly because of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
Novak Djokovic admits Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner 'too good' at the grand slams
Friday 5 September 2025 23:25 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic has admitted that the level of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner is currently “too good” for him to win grand slam titles.
Djokovic lost to Alcaraz in straight-sets in the US Open semi-finals, following straight-sets defats to Sinner at the French Open and Wimbledon.
Speaking a few moments ago, Djokovic said: “I lost three out of four slams in semis against these guys, so they're just too good, playing on a really high level.
“Unfortunately, I ran out of gas after the second set. I think I had enough energy to battle him and to keep up with his rhythm for two sets. After that I was gassed out, and he kept going.
“That's kind of what I felt this year also with Jannik. Yeah, best-of-five makes it very, very difficult for me to play them. Particularly if it's like the end stages of the Grand Slam.”
Carlos Alcaraz continues consistent streak
Friday 5 September 2025 23:15 , Jamie BraidwoodCarlos Alcaraz has reached the final of a tournament for the eighth time in a row. The consistency from the 22-year-old is superb.
Once again, he is likely to face Jannik Sinner, who goes up against Felix Auger-Aliassime in the second semi-final.
That will be from 7pm local time (midnight UK).
Carlos Alcaraz is a final away from history
Friday 5 September 2025 23:00 , Will CastleNo man has ever won the US Open without losing a set.
Carlos Alcaraz is a straight-sets win in the final away from doing so.
Carlos Alcaraz says Sergio Garcia 'owes him $200'
Friday 5 September 2025 22:51 , Will Castle“He owes me $200 right now,” Alcaraz said, pointing at Sergio Garcia in the crowd as the Masters champion got out his wallet.
Alcaraz, who celebrated with a golf swing, said he managed to beat Garcia - even if he had to give him what sounded like 18 strokes (the mic cut out as he said the all important number).
Carlos Alcaraz reacts to booking his place in the US Open final
Friday 5 September 2025 22:47 , Will Castle“It’s a great feeling,” Alcaraz said.
“It feels amazing and means a lot to me. It wasn’t the best level of the tournament for me but I keep the best until the last. I tried to play a really physical match and think I did it. I’m really happy to be in the final of the US Open.”
GAME, SET & MATCH! *Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-7 2-6 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 22:43 , Will CastleIt’s another car-crash game for Djokovic plagued with unforced errors and another double fault - and Alcaraz books his place in the US Open final!
After losing that second-set tiebreaker, it felt all but over. The introduction of the physio seemed to put the seal on defeat.
Is this Novak’s last US Open? We’ll hope not - but that was brutal.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-7 2-5 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 22:38 , Will CastleAlcaraz starts with an ace before playing out a fantastically competitive point with Djokovic - one that sees him crash into the cameramen as he chased a trademark Alcaraz drop shot.
Two more convincing points and Alcaraz holds to love.
Djokovic will serve to stay in the US Open.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-7 2-4 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 22:36 , Will CastleThe crowd are just trying to will Djokovic on like an old dog chasing a tennis ball.
His movement is compromised but he gets some good help from his serve, firing two aces to give him a 40-15 lead.
Alcaraz gets back into it with a passing backhand that sees Djokovic rooted to the spot, but a sharp down-the-line shot forces the error from the Spaniard.
Djokovic holds.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-7 1-4 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 22:32 , Will CastleAlcaraz’s turn to double fault as he gives away the first point, but the Spaniard responds with a lovely passing forehand to level things up.
Another brilliant forehand passes Djokovic, who is just unable to move like he used to.
The Serb’s feet get stuck to the floor as swings desperately into the net before Alcaraz sees out the hold.
This is getting difficult to watch for Novak.
BREAK! Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-7 1-3 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 22:29 , Will CastleOh boy.
Djokovic recovers an Alcaraz forehand off the net cord to win the first point but things threaten to fall apart as he scuffs a wild forehand high into the crowd, before double faulting.
With the score 30-40, he double faults again. May day, may day.
That could spell the end of Djokovic’s US Open.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-7 1-2 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 22:23 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic has now lost eight sets in a row against either Jannik Sinner or Carlos Alcaraz.
He was beaten by the Italian in straight-sets in the French Open and Wimbledon semi-finals.
And it’s turning into an all-too-familiar feeling as Alcaraz marches into a two-set lead in the US Open semi-finals.
He gets to 30-30 against the Alcaraz serve, but the Spaniard plays the drop shot well this time and Djokovic pushes the lob long.
ACE from Alcaraz. Emphatic.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-7 1-1 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 22:19 , Jamie BraidwoodWe’re past the two-hour mark. Djokovic is looking at a five-hour match if he hopes to keep his bid of a 25th grand slam alive.
It’s slipping away but he holds serve to start the third set.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-7 0-1 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 22:17 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz comes out to serve at the start of the third set and looks locked in, not allowing Djokovic receiving some treatment to distract him.
A very good start from the 22-year-old.
MEDICAL TIMEOUT! Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-7 (4-7) Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 22:13 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic has called the trainer and receives treatment for his upper shoulder. He had received treatment on the same area during his win over Jan-Lennard Struff in the fourth round.
It’s a long way back for the 38-year-old from here.
Alcaraz maintains his 100 per cent record in sets at the US Open, and moves to 17/17.
One more and he’ll be back in the US Open final.
SECOND SET! Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-7 (4-7) Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 22:10 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz’s turn to serve with a 5-4 lead. The noise rises as the second set reaches its climax.
Alcaraz finds a 131mph bomb down the middle to bring up set point!
An awful return from Djokovic against the second serve! Alcaraz went down the middle, but Djokovic puts his backhand well out!
TIEBREAK! Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-6 (3-5) Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 22:07 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic gets the points back! Alcaraz turns to the drop shot again - and it again does not come off - Djokovic is too wily and not only reaches it but finds a brilliant angle on the return, sending Alcaraz sliding and spinning to his right.
But Djokovic then nets on the forehand after a punishing rally! Alcaraz raises his arm! Djokovic doubled over as the forehand down the line struck the net.
TIEBREAK! Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-6 (1-4) Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 22:04 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic nets on the backhand down the line and that could be costly. But it’s not as bad as a woeful drop shot from Djokovic into the middle of the net!
Djokovic in a hole already, down 1-4 and Alcaraz about to have two serves.
TIEBREAK! Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-6 (1-2) Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 22:02 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz with a brilliant forehand return on the opening point! He reaches out wide to his right and snaps the shot back at Djokovic’s feet. Djokovic pulls the forehand wide.
But Djokovic gets the mini-break back with a brilliant scrambling point! He goes for the inside-out drop shot and then reaches Alcaraz’s return before finding the lob.
TIEBREAK! Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-6 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 21:59 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz’s serving is getting better and better as we go. He gets through to the tiebreak as Djokovic nets on the backhand. Alcaraz cries out and looks to pump himself up for the pivotal decider.
Djokovic’s tiebreak record so far this year has not been as good as his usual high level.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 6-5 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 21:55 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic reaches the Alcaraz drop shot as the Spaniard pushes the lob wide. Djokovic trades forehands with Alcaraz and finds the angle to fire down the line. Great hold from Djokovic, and enough to get through to a tiebreak at least.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 5-5 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 21:51 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz finds some timely first serves, which had been lacking in the match so far, to jump into a 40-0 lead. Djokovic nets and cuts a frustrated look up high.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 5-4 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 21:47 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz puts another drop shot into the net on 30-30... then Djokovic thumps the serve out wide and Alcaraz can’t return!
Big hold from Djokovic from 0-30 down. He comes out on top in the 27-shot rally, the longest of the semi-final so far.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 4-4 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 21:46 , Jamie BraidwoodA double-fault from Djokovic to start a must-hold game, which is punished by Alcaraz leaning into the backhand winner down the line!
0-30. WHAT A POINT! Djokovic comes out on top in the 27-shot rally, returning Alcaraz’s huge forehand crosscourt. Alcaraz catcehs the net-cord, then nets on the sliding forehand.
30-30.
Huge game.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 4-4 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 21:41 , Jamie BraidwoodBrilliant from Alcaraz to find the dipping backhand winner that beats Djokovic as he comes into the net.
Djokovic rolls his neck as Alcaraz crushes the forehand down the line and follows it in to put away the volley.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 4-3 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 21:37 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic goes back to the second-serve return aimed at Alcaraz’s backhand, a tactic the Spaniard has yet to get to grips with.
Djokovic finds great depth to push Alcaraz back and fire the forehand winner down the line.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-3 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 21:34 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz finds a gorgeous forehand winner, that is pushed past Djokovic from inside the line.
The Spaniard has reeled off three games in a row to get back on serve, in a must-win set for the 38-year-old.
BREAK! Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-2 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 21:30 , Jamie BraidwoodGreat point! Both players up the intensity of their forehand and exchange blows on 30-30. Djokovic moves in, but can’t do enough with the volley and Alcaraz finds the forehand pass!
Djokovic applauds Alcaraz... but then nets poorly on the backhand to five up the break! A fine moment from Alcaraz, but a disappointing way for Djokovic to hand back the break he had so worked for.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-1 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 21:25 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic knows he’s locked into a match now, and looks a little irritated as he nets on the backhand and Alcaraz holds.
He was a bit flat in the first set.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-0 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 21:20 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz looks a little out of ideas as he puts up a soft lob and Djokovic finds the overhead!
Djokovic lands a wide serve and Alcaraz puts the backhand straight out! This is the worst Alcaraz has played so far at the tournament.
BREAK! *Novak Djokovic 4-6 2-0 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 21:18 , Jamie BraidwoodA little loose from Alcaraz in the trade of backhands from the baseline! He goes long and brings up break point for Djokovic, his first of the match.
WHAT A POINT! Djokovic finds a brilliant forehand flick to return the Alcaraz drive, finding the baseline and lobbing Alcaraz. The Spaniard runs back and returns on the spin, but then goes horribly long on the backhand!
Djokovic breaks to lead and looks invigorated as he waves his arms as his supporters rise! We have a match!
Novak Djokovic 4-6 1-0 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 21:13 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic holds from 0-30 down to start the second set! That’s big. Alcaraz forced Djokovic into the miss at the net as he closed in on a smash.
But Djokovic attacks well to put away a soft volley, then is there to read a scorching forehand crosscourt from Alcaraz, returning the winner down the line.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 0-0 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 21:09 , Jamie BraidwoodA slow start from Djokovic, with Alcaraz bringing it to him early on the forehand crosscourt, was the difference there. From the opening game, Alcaraz shaded it and was largely dominant on serve, with Djokovic yet to force a break point. He got to 30-30 on the final game but could not get a return in play.
Alcaraz moves to 16/16 in sets won at the US Open. Djokovic will have to come from behind. He will serve again to start the second set.
FIRST SET! *Novak Djokovic 4-6 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 21:06 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic is laughing as he flips a lob over Alcaraz’s head and is then there to meet the volley at the net. He enjoyed that point as he battles Alcaraz on the big stage and gestures to the crowd.
Can he force a break point? Alcaraz nets on the forehand, and has to wait to serve as the crowd chants Djokovic’s name. Alcaraz with the wide serve, and Djokovic nets!
Djokovic casts a rueful look: Alcaraz finds the serve down the middle and Djokovic nets again on the return. Alcaraz roars as he takes the first set, following the opening break!
Novak Djokovic 4-5 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 21:02 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz does not look pleased as he swishes his racket after putting his forehand long.
Djokovic clips the top of the net as he drives a forehand down the line. Alcaraz then goes long on the return.
Over to Alcaraz to serve it out.
*Novak Djokovic 3-5 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 20:59 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz has won 11/13 points when getting his first serve in. He holds pretty comfortably and moves a game away from the set.
Novak Djokovic 3-4 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 20:58 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic finds an accurate serve out wide when facing a pressure point on 30-30, putting the forehand winner behind Alcaraz.
He stays in touch but Alcaraz is barely dropping a point on serve when he gets his first strike in play.
*Novak Djokovic 2-4 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 20:51 , Jamie BraidwoodThat’s more like it from Alcaraz. Stepping inside the baseline, he flashes three winners in one game and then thumps a first-serve down the middle to take the game. Djokovic, leaping to his left, could only get a racket to it.
Novak Djokovic 2-3 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 20:48 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic’s difficulty on serve continues as a double-fault on the opening point is followed by an error.
But he rallies from 0-30 down. He targets the Alcaraz backhand on the second-serve and Alcaraz goes long on the return. He would want that again.
Djokovic closes the door with a backhand winner that catches the outside of the line. Alcaraz then puts his second drop shot into the net.
A good hold from Djokovic but a ruthless Alcaraz would have won that game.
*Novak Djokovic 1-3 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 20:43 , Jamie BraidwoodBut after that brilliant backhand winner, Djokovic can’t apply pressure on Alcaraz and his backhand return drifts long. Alcaraz holds.
Novak Djokovic 1-2 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 20:42 , Jamie BraidwoodAwesome from Alcaraz to adjust to a strike from Djokovic that was aimed deep and almost landed on his feet at the baseline.
He works his way into the point and then ramps up the power of his forehand, looking to be in control of the game.
But a double fault is followed by a drop shot that does not clear the net: Djokovic with half a look at deuce.
On game point, Djokovic crushes a huge backhand winner down the line and then theatrically shakes his wrist!
That was sizzling. Deuce again.
Novak Djokovic 1-2 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 20:34 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz swats a forehand for a return winner against the Djokovic second serve.
On 30-30, Alcaraz attacks Djokovic again - pushing the 38-year-old deep as he comes into the net.
Djokovic saves break point by finding a much-needed first serve out wide, then following it with an ace.
Djokovic finds some accuracy and saves break point as Alcaraz nets on the wide forehand.
*Novak Djokovic 0-2 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 20:30 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz has not lost a set so far at the US Open and has only been broken once.
He lands a thumping serve out wide on his way to consolidating the opening break.
A very good start from the 22-year-old.
BREAK! Novak Djokovic 0-1 Carlos Alcaraz*
Friday 5 September 2025 20:25 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz stretches Djokovic wide to his backhand side and finds the forehand winner, and gets another look at break point as Djokovic nets on the forehand.
Djokovic goes long on the forehand and Alcaraz gets the early break! A boost for Alcaraz, with Djokovic losing his serve from game point after seven minutes.
*Novak Djokovic 0-0 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 20:22 , Jamie BraidwoodAlcaraz’s forehand return crosscourt gives Djokovic an early problem. Djokovic nets and it brings up a break point for the Spaniard.
Alcaraz with a scorching forehand crosscourt but Djokovic defends. Alcaraz advances to the net, but misses the volley!
*Novak Djokovic 0-0 Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 20:18 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic will serve to get us started.
Novak Djokovic's bid for tennis history
Friday 5 September 2025 20:15 , Jamie BraidwoodAs Novak Djokovic chases grand slam history and his 25th title, this could be one of his final opportunities.
Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have shut the door since his last title at the 2023 US Open, winning the last seven grand slams between them.
At 38, Djokovic is running out of time and will likely have to get through Alcaraz and Sinner if he is to win the US Open.
It would be epic if he manages it.
Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz walk out onto court
Friday 5 September 2025 20:12 , Jamie BraidwoodHere we go! There are huge roars for Alcaraz, who looks to be the crowd favourite here. Alcaraz and Djokovic pat each other on the back as they pose for a pre-match photo.
Novak Djokovic confirms he's 'feeling good' before US Open semi-final
Friday 5 September 2025 20:08 , Jamie Braidwood“Feeling very good. Let’s see. It’s cool, it’s going to be a physical match,” Djokovic says before walking out on court.
Djokovic is playing his 53rd grand slam semi-final today and says he takes no match for granted at this stage of his career.
Novak Djokovic v Carlos Alcaraz
Friday 5 September 2025 20:06 , Jamie BraidwoodCarlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic’s semi-final had a start time of ‘not before’ 3pm local time.
With the women’s doubles final taking place earlier on Arthur Ashe Stadium, there’s a little bit of a delay
But Alcaraz an Djokovic will be walking out onto court very shortly. The introductions are about to be made.
Preview: Novak Djokovic’s historic US Open run now faces a problem he created
Friday 5 September 2025 20:03 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic has some plans to disrupt. If everyone at the US Open is looking ahead to a third consecutive grand slam final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, Djokovic believes he could yet have his say. His road to a record 25 grand slam title will likely run through the two best players in the world, starting with Alcaraz in the semi-finals on Friday.
Novak Djokovic’s historic US Open run now faces a problem he created
Can Novak Djokovic's body get him through US Open semi-final?
Friday 5 September 2025 19:56 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic said he hoped his body would not let him down ahead of today’s semi-final with Carlos Alcaraz.
The extra day of rest could be crucial, with Djokovic coming through his quarter-final with Taylor Fritz on Tuesday.
“The next couple of days is really key for me to really get my body in shape and ready to battle five sets if it's needed,” he said.
“I just would really love that. Would love to be fit enough to play and to play, you know, potentially five sets with Carlos. I know that my best tennis is going to be required, but I'd rise to the occasion.”
Carlos Alcaraz has yet to beat Novak Djokovic on a hard-court
Friday 5 September 2025 19:48 , Jamie BraidwoodThe big stat sticking out ahead of today’s semi-final is that Alcaraz has never beaten Djokovic on a hard court. He has beaten him twice at Wimbledon, and once in their first meeting on clay in Madrid. This will be their first meeting at the US Open.
Djokovic v Alcaraz head-to-head
2025: Australian Open quarter-final (outdoor hard) - Djokovic won 4-6 6-4 6-3 6-4
2024: Olympics final (clay) - Djokovic won 7-6 7-6
2024: Wimbledon final (grass) - Alcaraz won 6-2 6-2 7-6
2023: ATP Finals semi-final (indoor hard) - Djokovic won 6-3 6-2
2023: Cincinnati final (outdoor hard) - Djokovic won 5-7 7-6 7-6
2023: Wimbledon final (grass) - Alcaraz won 1-6 7-6 6-1 2-6 6-4
2023: French Open semi-final (clay) - Djokovic won 6-2 5-7 6-1 6-1
2022: Madrid semi-final (clay) Alcaraz won 6-7 7-5 7-6
Can Novak Djokovic break through semi-final barrier?
Friday 5 September 2025 19:41 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic is looking to “mess up the plans” of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
Well, the semi-final stage has become a hurdle for Djokovic as he prepares for his 14th US Open semi-final at the age of 38.
After retiring from his Australian Open semi-final against Alexander Zverev in January, Djokovic was beaten in straight-sets by Jannik Sinner at the French Open and Wimbledon.
He has reached all four grand slam semi-finals for the seventh time, but Djokovic is yet to reach a final this season. The last time he failed to reach a grand slam final was 2017.
When is US Open women’s final? Anisimova v Sabalenka start time and how to watch
Friday 5 September 2025 19:31 , Jamie BraidwoodAmerican Amanda Anisimova plays defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in the US Open women’s final on Saturday.
Just eight weeks ago, Anisimova lost her first grand slam final 6-0 6-0 at Wimbledon to Iga Swiatek, but the 24-year-old has put that disappointment behind her to reach her first US Open final.
The eighth seed earned revenge against Swiatek in the quarter-finals then defeated Naomi Osaka in a semi-final thriller to set up the chance for the ultimate redemption against Sabalenka.
Sabalenka is also out for revenge after her defeat to Anisimova in the Wimbledon semi-finals, while the World No 1 aims to become the first player to defend a US Open singles title since Serena Williams in 2015.
Sabalenka is through to a third grand slam final this year, but lost the Australian Open final to Madison Keys and the French Open final to Coco Gauff.
When is US Open women’s final? Anisimova v Sabalenka start time and how to watch
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