Novak Djokovic’s bid for a record 25th Grand Slam title ended in agony on Friday after the 37-year-old retired in his Australian Open semi-final against Alexander Zverev, MySportDab Reports.
Struggling with a muscle tear in his upper left leg, Djokovic pulled out after losing the first set 7-6(7/5), casting doubt on his future in Melbourne.
The Serb, who had his leg heavily taped after he picked up the injury in the quarter-finals, left Rod Laver Arena to a combination of boos and applause. His retirement put Zverev into his first Australian Open final.
“It’s definitely possible,” Djokovic said when asked if this could be his last visit to Melbourne Park. “I hope to keep doing it, but if I’ll change what I do or not next year, I’m not sure. If I’m fit, healthy and motivated, I see no reason not to come back. But there’s always a chance.”
The extended Grand Slam drought for Djokovic now reaches five tournaments. The last time he hoisted a major trophy was at the 2023 US Open, and it remains an open question if he will ever beat Margaret Court’s 24 title record. The defeat in the semi-final also meant he missed out on a 100th career title.
Looking back on his tournament, Djokovic said, “I thought I played a really good game. I liked my chances as long as I was in shape. “A lot of positives to take away from my performance.”
Zverev, who will meet either world No. 1 Jannik Sinner or Ben Shelton in Sunday’s final, lauded Djokovic’s impact on the game. “Novak has dedicated his life to tennis the last 20 years. Be respectful and give him some love,” he told the audience.
Despite concerns about his fitness, Djokovic started the match aggressively, saving a number of break points, and forcing a tiebreak. But a costly volley error gave Zverev the first set. The German appeared poised and relaxed, continuing the form that saw end him 2024 the world’s No. 2.
For Zverev, it is a milestone after recovering from a career-threatening ankle injury. He now sets his sights on his first Grand Slam title in Melbourne.
