Australian Open: Djokovic Reaches Semis as Musetti Retires Injured

Novak Djokovic moved into the Australian Open semi-finals on Wednesday after Lorenzo Musetti was forced to retire injured, despite leading by two sets in their quarter-final clash at Rod Laver Arena.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion was trailing 6-4, 6-3, 3-1 when Musetti’s campaign came to an abrupt end due to an upper-right leg injury. The Italian sustained the injury early in the third set, having taken full control of the contest with his variety, movement and relentless shot-making.

Musetti, who had never beaten Djokovic at a Grand Slam, looked poised to break that streak before the injury struck. He received medical attention at 1-2 in the third set and attempted to continue, but after two hours and eight minutes of high-intensity tennis, he was unable to go on.

Djokovic was gracious in victory, acknowledging that he was outplayed for much of the match. “I feel really sorry for him. He was a far better player. I was on my way home tonight,” Djokovic said.

Reflecting on the contest, Djokovic admitted Musetti’s game disrupted his rhythm. “The strategy worked in the first couple of games, but then it changed completely,” he said. “That’s what Lorenzo does to you—when you think the point is over, it’s not. He makes you play every ball.” Djokovic now holds a 10–1 head-to-head record against Musetti.

Despite struggling to find timing in the opening sets, Djokovic said physical issues were not a factor. “I had a blister here and there, but nothing major,” he said, crediting Musetti’s quality and the windy conditions for his difficulties. “I’m extremely lucky to get through this one.”

The match also carried historic significance. By stepping onto court, Djokovic became only the third man in history—after Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer—to compete in 1,400 tour-level matches. He also surpassed Federer to claim sole ownership of the record for the most Australian Open singles match wins, with 103 victories in Melbourne.

(With inputs from ANI)