Carlos Alcaraz has stormed into the US Open 2025 semifinal with dominant performances, including a straight-set victory over Jiri Lehecka. However, as he prepares to face Novak Djokovic, his coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, is urging him to stay focused and avoid fixating on his opponent.

Ferrero, a former world No. 1, wants Alcaraz to concentrate on his own game and push Djokovic to his physical limits. He believes that Alcaraz's consistency has improved, which could be a key factor in the match. "We shouldn't obsess over Novak," Ferrero stated, emphasizing the importance of Alcaraz focusing on himself and making the match physically demanding for Djokovic.

While Alcaraz has been playing "spectacularly" with great confidence, Ferrero hesitates to label him as the favorite against "the best player in history". He acknowledges that Djokovic will give his all, making the match "extremely tough".

Djokovic leads their head-to-head record 5-3, having won their last two encounters. These include the Australian Open quarter-final in January and the Paris Olympics gold medal match last year. Alcaraz's coach believes that the daytime conditions of the US Open will favor Alcaraz, unlike their previous match in Melbourne, which was played at night.

Djokovic has admitted that maintaining his physical fitness has become more challenging. Throughout the tournament, he has required treatment during matches, raising concerns about potential physical limitations.

The highly anticipated semi-final clash is scheduled for Friday, September 5, at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The match is set to take place in the North American prime time slot at 7pm local time (23:00 GMT).

This marks the first time Djokovic and Alcaraz will meet at the US Open. While Djokovic has four US Open titles, Alcaraz secured his first Grand Slam title at the same venue in 2022.

Alcaraz has expressed that comparisons to tennis legends like Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer are a "compliment". However, he is focused on forging his own path and establishing a unique identity in tennis.

Despite Djokovic's edge in their head-to-head record, Alcaraz is determined to avenge his recent losses. He has been in impressive form at the US Open, winning all 15 sets he has played. Djokovic, aiming for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, is equally motivated. He seeks to disrupt the plans of those anticipating a final between Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.

Regardless of the outcome, the semi-final promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the sport's top players.