Novak Djokovic prepares to face Carlos Alcaraz in the first US Open men’s singles semifinal and he will have a new guest in his players’ box. Monica Seles arrived this afternoon to lend her support “from the stands,” joining a familiar circle of family and coaches as Djokovic chases a record 25th Grand Slam.
Monica Seles on Her Presence in Novak Djokovic’s Players’ Box
In an exclusive with Sportklub, Seles revealed, “I know he needs all the energy possible, and I will give my all to support him from the stands.” Her comment sparked excitement about her role, not merely as a spectator but as a morale booster for Djokovic.
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🇷🇸😮 Monica Seles will be in Novak Djokovic’s box today during his US Open match against Carlos Alcaraz:
“I know he needs all the energy possible, and I will give my all to support him from the stands.”
🗣️ https://t.co/TnfrYaEOw8 pic.twitter.com/yNBNHS1wBf
— Olly Tennis 🎾🇬🇧 (@Olly_Tennis_) September 5, 2025
Their shared history dates back to Djokovic’s childhood admiration of Seles, who was also nurtured by his early coach, the legendary Jelena Genčić. There has also been rumors around the former World No. 1 joining the Serb’s coaching team. Seles previously confirmed on her Instagram stories that she would be attending Djokovic’s match.
MORE: ‘We’ve Had Some Interesting Conversations’ – Novak Djokovic Fuels Monica Seles Speculation
A seasoned team shapes Djokovic’s on-court strategies, namely, head coaches Dušan Vemić, and Boris Bošnjaković, tje 24-time Grand Slam champion’s analytical specialist since 2023. Hitting partner Carlos Gómez Herrera keeps Djokovic’s timing sharp and off-court, physiotherapist Claudio Zimaglia and fitness coach Dalibor Širola ensure his body holds up through grueling Grand Slam shifts.
Apart from the coaching team, Djokovic’s father, Srdjan, can be easily spotted in his signature white attire, overlooking his son’s performance. His younger brother, Djordje, has been a constant presence in hos box during the US Open and is expected to be present during the match.
How Does Djokovic’s Quest for 25th Major Title Look So Far?
Djokovic’s 2025 US Open journey began with unexpected challenges but concluded with his trademark resilience shining through. The 38-year-old Serbian started strong against Learner Tien, defeating a player half his age in straight sets. He lost the opening set to American qualifier Zachary Svajda in round two, but mounted an impressive comeback to win the match in four sets.
After settling into his rhythm, he faced his most physical test against Britain’s Cameron Norrie, battling through lower back issues and requiring medical timeouts to secure a four-set victory. Despite these struggles, he served 18 aces during the match, his personal best at Flushing Meadows. Djokovic then dominated Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff in straight sets, securing his place in yet another quarterfinal.
His quarterfinal clash with home favorite Taylor Fritz proved to be his toughest test of the campaign, lasting nearly three-and-a-half hours before winning 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 to extend his perfect head-to-head record against the American. This semifinal appearance marked a historic achievement, making Djokovic the oldest man to reach the semifinals at all four Grand Slams in a single season.
2008: Novak Djokovic becomes the youngest player to reach the semifinals of all 4 Slams.
2025: Novak Djokovic becomes the oldest player to reach the semifinals of all 4 Slams
Timeless. pic.twitter.com/tUvLaRq0i7
— Danny (@DjokovicFan_) September 3, 2025
Tonight’s match marks the fifth Grand Slam meeting between Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz. Djokovic leads their head-to-head 5–3 and seeks to extend his recent winning streak. Alcaraz, the younger Spaniard, remains a formidable challenger with blistering power and speed. As New York’s lights prepare to shine on Arthur Ashe Stadium, both champions aim to claim a place in the final.
