Novak Djokovic's bid for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title came to a heartbreaking end as he was forced to retire from his Australian Open semifinal match against Alexander Zverev due to a leg injury. Jannik Sinner, the world number one, advanced to the final after defeating Ben Shelton in a dominant display.
Novak Djokovic was forced to retire from his Australian Open semifinal match against Alexander Zverev on Friday due to a leg injury, leaving the court to a chorus of boos. This unfortunate turn of events ended his hopes of securing a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title. Jannik Sinner , the world number one seed, advanced to the final by defeating Ben Shelton in a dominant 7-6 (7/2), 6-2, 6-2 victory. Sinner will now face Zverev in the championship match.
Djokovic, hampered by a muscle tear, called it quits after losing a grueling first set to Zverev, 7-6 (7/5). The 37-year-old Serbian tennis legend, renowned for his exceptional resilience, acknowledged the injury's impact and expressed uncertainty about his future participation in Australian Open tournaments. While he cherished his success in Melbourne, having won the tournament a record 10 times, Djokovic admitted, 'There is a chance. Who knows?' when asked if he might have played his last match at Melbourne Park. Sinner, seeking his first successful Grand Slam title defense after winning last year's Australian Open, displayed exceptional determination in his semifinal match. He weathered a challenging opening set against Shelton, saving two set points and eventually clinching the tiebreak. In the following two sets, Sinner capitalized on Shelton's fatigue, securing a swift victory. Sinner expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, 'For three sets. Two and a half hours is quite a time. So happy to finish today in three.' He eagerly anticipates the final, acknowledging the challenge ahead. Zverev, a two-time Grand Slam runner-up, is also determined to secure his first major title.
Novak Djokovic Australian Open Injury Alexander Zverev Jannik Sinner Ben Shelton Tennis Grand Slam
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