Novak Djokovic’s bid to make more tennis history is still alive as he scraped into the Australian Open semi-finals after Lorenzo Musetti retired injured when leading by two sets.
Djokovic, aiming for a standalone record 25th Grand Slam singles title, was wayward, error-strewn and irritable against the inspired Italian in front of a stunned crowd.
Musetti was 6-4 6-3 up and looked set for the semi-finals when he pulled up early in the third set.
The fifth seed took a medical timeout for treatment on his thigh but, unable to serve or move properly, he walked to the net and shook hands at 3-1 down in the third.
A heartbroken Musetti had to be helped down the corridor by a member of his team as he left the court.
«He was a far better player – I was on my way home tonight,» the 38-year-old Serb great said.
«I don’t know what to say except that I feel really sorry for him.
«I really wish him a speedy recovery. He should have been a winner today, there’s no doubt.»
Djokovic received treatment for blisters on his feet at the end of the second set and could also have been tested physically had the match continued.
It is another stroke of luck for Djokovic after fourth-round opponent Jakub Mensik withdrew before their match with injury.
Despite the good fortune, Djokovic will know he will need to improve if he is to win an 11th Australian Open title, with two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner potentially waiting in the last four.
World number two Sinner, who beat Djokovic in the semi-finals two years ago, faces Ben Shelton later on Wednesday.
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16 August 2025
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