U.S. Open Heats Up: Top Players Clash in Third Round

The U.S. Open intensifies as the tournament reaches the third round. Top names, including defending champions Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff, face tough opponents in their bid for Grand Slam titles. Key matches include an all-American showdown between Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe, and Gauff's face-off with Elina Svitolina.

The U.S. Open enters the third round on Friday as the world's top players battle for Grand Slam glory in New York.

Men's defending champion Novak Djokovic, eyeing a fifth U.S. Open title to add to his record 24 Grand Slams, squares off against Australia's Alexei Popyrin. Meanwhile, women's titleholder Coco Gauff faces Ukraine's Elina Svitolina. In an all-American clash, Ben Shelton will rematch last year's quarter-final opponent Frances Tiafoe.

Shelton, who has triumphed over Tiafoe in their previous encounters, acknowledges the difficulty of their matches. "These are the type of matches that I love, that I live for," Shelton said. Tiafoe, while noting Shelton's strong serve, expressed his eagerness for the match.

In the women's bracket, Elina Svitolina and defending champion Coco Gauff are set to renew their rivalry. Gauff, acknowledging Svitolina's all-court skill, emphasized the need to bring her best game.

Novak Djokovic, struggling with his serve despite his strong performances, remains determined. "I'm still kind of trying to find that rhythm and tempo on the serve," the Serbian star commented. The tournament continues with high stakes as top athletes vie for victory.

(With inputs from agencies.)