Djokovic defeated fourth seed Taylor Fritz in a tense quarter-final.

The 38-year-old needed treatment for a back problem in a four-set victory on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Djokovic struggled in the second set of his 6-1 7-6 (3) 6-2 victory.

Djokovic also withdrew from Cincinnati last year as defending champion not long after his triumph in the singles event at the Paris Olympics.

The 38-year-old suffered a nasty fall late in his quarter-final win on Wednesday.

The 24-time grand slam winner fell in straight sets in his second-round match.

Djokovic confirmed the Scot had agreed to continue their partnership.

The Scot found the experience positive but believes he needs to get better in certain aspects.

The 37-year-old’s fitness had been in doubt ahead of his last-four clash with Alexander Zverev at the Australian Open.

The Serbian alleged in an interview that food he was served in Melbourne led to him having high levels of lead and mercury.

The Serbian is through to an Olympic final for the first time after beating Lorenzo Musetti.

Nadal waved a lingering goodbye to all sides of Court Philippe Chatrier after the 6-2 6-4 defeat.

Djokovic is recovering from knee surgery to repair an injury sustained at the French Open earlier this month.

Djokovic underwent an MRI scan on Tuesday which revealed a torn medial meniscus in his right knee and forced him to withdraw from the tournament.

Iga Swiatek marched on in the women’s draw, where Coco Gauff awaits.

Djokovic has endured a turbulent build-up to the tournament.

The Italian is the lowest-ranked player to beat the world number one at ATP Masters 1000 or Grand Slam level.

Djokovic had to save four set points on his serve to avoid falling 2-1 down to home favourite Alexei Popyrin on Rod Laver Arena.

Djokovic needs Jannik Sinner to beat Holger Rune to progress in Turin.

The 22-year-old Italian won a three-hour marathon 7-5 6-7 (5) 7-6 (2).