Djokovic jokes about injury after reaching US Open 4th round: Can't let rivals know

Novak Djokovic joked about his injury issues after reaching round 4 of the US Open 2025. Djokovic beat Briton Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-7(4-7), 6-2, 6-3 after quickly recovering from a lower back problem at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Saturday, August 30. Following his victory, he etched his name in the record books, becoming the oldest man to reach the last 16 in the tournament since American Jimmy Connors managed the feat at the same age in 1991.

Having struggled with a back issue during the match, the four-time US Open champion said that his team wants him to be tested during each match, as he hasn’t played much since his loss in the semi-final against Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon. He also joked about his fitness concerns, saying he’s fit as ever.

"My team wants me to suffer on the court so I can get some more minutes spent in match play. It's good that I get tested. I hadn't played any matches since Wimbledon and it's been for us quite a long time, five to six weeks. I'm still trying to find my groove and my rhythm on court. You have some ups and downs. I guess you don't want to reveal too much (about the injury) to the rivals listening and watching. I'm good, man. I'm as young as ever and strong as ever," said Djokovic.

Djokovic began to feel a back problem after going up 5-4 in the first set and received treatment off the court before returning to serve out the opening set. He called for more medical attention in the second set which even resulted in his first-serve speed briefly dipping.

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However, he found his rhythm again and went toe-to-toe with Norrie and eventually sealed a victory. Reflecting on his victory, Djokovic called it the best serving performance of the tournament.

"I guess coming into the match, any match, you really want to win in straight sets without any drama and just ease through, but that's not possible. I think it was probably the best serving performance of the tournament," he added.

Meanwhile, Djokovic will next take on Jan-Lennard Struff in the round of 16 clash on Sunday, August 31. Having not won a grand slam event since US Open 2023, he will be eager to end the wait for his 25th title at the Flushing meadows after being knocked out in the semi final of all three major events in the year so far.