News in brief

'Let's go step-by-step'

JWorld number one Novak Djokovic saw off Matteo Berrettini in the quarter-finals of the U.S. Open on Wednesday then swatted away questions about his bid to become the first man since Rod Laver in 1969 to sweep all four majors in the same calendar year. Djokovic overcame a slow start against the Italian sixth seed before wrapping up a 5-7, 6-2, 6-2, 6-3 victory and moving a step closer to his 21st Grand Slam title. The Serb, who will take on German fourth seed Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals, cut off Patrick McEnroe when he edged towards the subject in an on-court interview. "You don't have to ask me anything about that," said Djokovic. "I don't want to think about it, I know it's there, just focusing on the next match and let's go step-by-step."

Italy return to winning ways

Italy recorded their first win since being crowned European champions as strikers Moise Kean and Giacomo Raspadori inspired a crushing 5-0 win over Lithuania to strengthen their grip on top spot in World Cup qualifying Group C. The Azzurri side comfortably extended their record international unbeaten run to 37 matches.