In the major upset at the Brisbane International, big-serving American Reilly Opelka defeated former world number one player Novak Djokovic in the quarterfinals in straight sets.
Opelka demonstrated his formidable serve in a 7-6, 6-3 win, hitting 16 aces and ending each set with one.
“I had nothing to lose going in against him. He’s the greatest player ever.” Opelka said after the match, he played freely, taking bold risks that ultimately led to success.
The 37-year-old Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, was making his season debut as he prepared for the forthcoming Australian Open.
Having undergone hip surgery in 2022, Opelka now looks ahead to facing Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the semifinals after the French youngster defeated his Czech opponent, Jakub Mensik, in straight sets.
