Dubai Tennis Championships: Djokovic Survives Marathon Against Rising Star

Novak Djokovic showed all his championship mettle to survive a grueling three-set battle against rising American star Ben Shelton, winning 6-4, 4-6, 7-6(5) to advance to the semifinals of the Dubai Tennis Championships in what many are calling the match of the tournament.

The 36-year-old Serbian, seeking his fifth Dubai title, was pushed to his absolute limits by the 21-year-old Shelton, who served notice that the next generation is ready to challenge tennis' established order. The match lasted three hours and seventeen minutes, with neither player willing to give an inch in a contest that featured breathtaking rallies and clutch shot-making.

Shelton, who reached his first Grand Slam semifinal at the US Open last year, came out swinging with his signature aggressive baseline game. His thunderous forehand and improved net play troubled Djokovic throughout, particularly in the second set where the young American leveled the match with a series of stunning winners down the stretch.

"Ben played incredible tennis today," Djokovic said during his on-court interview. "He has all the tools to be a top player for many years. I had to dig very deep and use all my experience to find a way through. These are the matches that remind you why you love this sport."

The deciding set was a masterclass in mental fortitude from both players. Shelton saved three break points at 4-4, while Djokovic had to fight off two set points at 5-6 before forcing the tiebreak. In the breaker, it was the veteran's composure that ultimately proved decisive, as he won four of the final five points to seal the victory.

Shelton's powerful serve was a major factor throughout, firing 15 aces and winning 78% of his first-serve points. However, Djokovic's return game slowly began to find its rhythm, and his ability to extend rallies eventually wore down his younger opponent in the crucial moments.

The victory sets up a semifinal clash with Russian qualifier Karen Khachanov, while the other semifinal will feature defending champion Daniil Medvedev against Italian Lorenzo Musetti. For Djokovic, the win represents another step in his quest to add to his record 24 Grand Slam titles and maintain his position atop the tennis world.

Despite the loss, Shelton can take enormous pride in his performance and the clear signal that he belongs among tennis' elite competitors.