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Djokovic reaches semis as Musetti retires injured
Novak Djokovic secured a place in the Australian Open semi-finals after Lorenzo Musetti retired due to injury while leading two sets to one in their quarter-final match.
Match drama unfolds on Rod Laver Arena
The 24-time Grand Slam champion faced a fierce challenge from the 23-year-old Italian, who dominated early play with a 6-4 6-3 lead. Musetti appeared poised for victory before pulling up with a thigh injury early in the third set.
After receiving medical treatment, Musetti attempted to continue but was unable to serve or move effectively, ultimately conceding the match at 3-1 down in the third set. A visibly emotional Musetti was assisted off the court by his team.
Djokovic reflects on fortunate escape
Speaking after the match, Djokovic admitted Musetti had outplayed him and expressed sympathy for his opponent. "He was a far better player-I was on my way home tonight," the Serb said. "I really wish him a speedy recovery. He should have been a winner today, there's no doubt. I am extremely lucky to get through this one."
Djokovic also revealed he had received treatment for blisters on his feet at the end of the second set, suggesting the match could have tested him physically had it continued.
Recent struggles and upcoming challenge
Djokovic has not won a set since his third-round victory over Botic van de Zandschulp on January 24. His path to a record 25th Grand Slam title now hinges on Friday's semi-final against Jannik Sinner, who has won six of their past seven meetings.
Sinner, the two-time defending champion, overcame Ben Shelton in straight sets (6-3 6-4 6-4) in the other quarter-final, though he showed signs of fatigue mid-match. Despite a brief dip in form, Sinner reported feeling physically stronger than in previous rounds.
Djokovic's road to history
To surpass Margaret Court's record of 24 major singles titles, Djokovic must minimize his time on court and rely on short points-along with a dose of good fortune. While he has benefited from luck so far, including a fourth-round walkover against Jakub Mensik, his quarter-final performance was far from convincing.
Djokovic started strongly but quickly unraveled, committing 18 unforced errors to just nine winners in the first set alone. His frustration was evident as he turned to his team in disbelief, though he later acknowledged his own errors cost him momentum.
Musetti's heartbreak and Djokovic's empathy
Musetti described his injury as a growing issue that surfaced early in the second set. "I felt it at the beginning of the second set. The pain was increasing, and the problem wasn't going away," he said. "I honestly have no words to describe how I'm feeling right now."
Djokovic, who has faced his own physical struggles early in his career, offered warm words to his opponent at the net and afterward, recognizing the devastation of the moment.
Sinner's confidence ahead of Djokovic clash
Sinner enters the semi-final on a 19-match winning streak at the Australian Open, a record he aims to extend. "These are the moments you practice for," he said. "You wake up in the morning and look forward to playing a good match."
While acknowledging Djokovic's experience, Sinner emphasized the value of the challenge, win or lose. "It doesn't really matter if you win; it improves you as a player and as a person."
