Despite a first-set groin strain, the 37-year-old won an epic showdown to stay on course for a record 25th grand slam

When the gunslinger takes a bullet, the movie tends to quicken. A shootout goes awry, the drama builds. Their stomach bloody. Their eyes blinking new resolve. The thoughts of the audience turn only to how long they can last.

This cinematic masterpiece was no exception. On Tuesday Novak Djokovic enjoyed top billing, back for another tilt long after doubters thought he was done. And the sheriff-slash-outlaw prevailed in a remarkable quarter-final pitting youth versus experience, then against now, present fighting future.