Djokovic's Australian Open Dream Ends with Injury Retirement
Novak Djokovic’s quest for a record-extending 11th Australian Open title came to an abrupt end as he retired from his semi-final against Alexander Zverev due to a leg injury. The 37-year-old, who had been battling a muscle tear sustained in his quarter-final win over Carlos Alcaraz, was booed by sections of the Rod Laver Arena crowd as he exited the court after losing the first set 7-6 (5).
Djokovic, visibly struggling with the injury, shook hands with Zverev immediately after the tiebreak, signalling his inability to continue. The Serbian later confirmed in his post-match press conference that he had not trained since the Alcaraz match and had done everything possible to manage the injury, including medication and physiotherapy. However, the pain became too severe to continue. “If I won the first set, maybe I would try a few more games, but it was getting worse and worse,” Djokovic said.
Zverev, who advanced to his first Australian Open final, defended Djokovic in his on-court interview, urging the crowd to show respect for the 24-time Grand Slam champion. “Please don’t boo a player when he goes out injured,” Zverev said. “Novak Djokovic has given this sport everything for the past 20 years. If he cannot continue, he cannot continue.”
The German’s comments were echoed by former players and commentators, who criticised the crowd’s reaction. Djokovic, who has won the Australian Open with injuries in the past, raised doubts about his future at the tournament, stating, “I don’t know if this will be my last appearance here. I’ll have to see how the season goes.”
Djokovic’s retirement marked a disappointing end to a tournament where he had shown glimpses of his best form, particularly in his thrilling victory over Alcaraz. The Serbian’s partnership with Andy Murray, who joined his coaching team on a trial basis, had also drawn attention. Murray, who retired from professional tennis last year, provided tactical support and a calming presence in Djokovic’s camp. The pair are set to discuss the future of their partnership following the tournament.
Zverev will now face defending champion Jannik Sinner in the final, as Djokovic’s hopes of a 25th Grand Slam title were dashed. Despite the setback, Djokovic remains determined to continue competing at the highest level, though his injury struggles raise questions about his longevity in the sport.
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