The 36-year-old Serb, assured of becoming world No. 1 again, will try to win his fourth trophy at Flushing Meadows on Sunday against defending champion Carlos Alcaraz (No. 1) or 2021 winner Daniil Medvedev (3rd).
Djokovic reached his tenth final in New York where he won three times (2011, 2015 and 2018), equalling Bill Tilden's record. He also brings his record of Grand Slam finals to 36, now five lengths ahead of Roger Federer.
He has also now reached the finals of all four Majors for the third time in the same season (after 2015 and 2021).
On Friday, the roof of Arthur Ashe Court was closed preemptively due to the risk of rain throughout the day and the air conditioning ensured a playable temperature.
Against all odds as he faces an American, Djokovic was heavily applauded as he entered the court and introduced the players.
From the outset, Shelton was very aggressive, especially on Djokovic's second service balls.
But the Serb dominated the exchange and managed the break to lead 4-2. He confirmed at 5-2 on an ace.
Then, after missing four set balls on Shelton's serve, the Serb closed on his fifth, on his serve.
In total in this first set, the American won only five points on Djokovic's serve, including three in the last game, and lost the only break ball he created.
Djokovic dominated the second set even more clearly by twice taking his opponent's serve, even though he was his main weapon, without having to defend a single break ball himself.
Starting 2-2, Djokovic won six games in a row to pocket the second set and break away 2-0 in the third.
While Djokovic looked set to win without further resistance, Shelton nevertheless broke and regained confidence with some huge forehands and serves (including one at 145 mph, or 233 km/h).
The Serb still served to win at 6-5 but, despite a match ball, he allowed Shelton to break by sending a smash into the net.
Then he had another little scare in the tie break where, leading 5/1, he let Shelton come back to 5/4 before closing.
© 2023 AFP