Novak Djokovic (1) vs. Mikhail Youzhny (21)
Novak Djokovic has reached at least the final four of every US Open from 2007-2012. He is the number one seed and an obvious pick in this match. I am not convinced that it will be entirely easy for Novak. He played flawlessly in the round of 16, but at Montreal and Cincinnati Novak put on a dominant performance in the match prior to his elimination. I think Novak will win, but Youzhny’s madman persona and talented shot making might make this a four set match.
Prediction: Novak Djokovic defeat Mikhail Youzhny 7-6, 6-2, 6-3
Tennis Abides: Dan Martin on Tennis and Life 
i agree dan. i think youz can trouble nole. he won a set in monte carlo and kept it close there. he played a lot of low slices vs leyton and i am sure he’s going to bring the same kind of variety to tonight’s match. i hope nole can do it in 3. but i am not feeling too sure about that.
If Novak avoids any lapses in this match I’ll feel quite good about his chances for the rest of the event.