Novak Djokovic’s pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title came to a disappointing halt on Friday, as the 37-year-old retired with a muscle injury during his Australian Open semi-final against Alexander Zverev.
Djokovic, who had his upper left leg heavily taped after sustaining a tear in the quarter-finals, withdrew after losing the first set 7-6 (7/5).
Walking off the Melbourne Park court to a mix of boos and applause, Djokovic hinted this could mark his final appearance at the tournament.
“There is a chance. Who knows,” he said when asked if this might have been his farewell to the Australian Open.
Despite expressing his desire to continue competing, he admitted uncertainty about his future schedule, adding, “If I’m fit, healthy, motivated, I don’t see a reason why I wouldn’t come back. But there’s always a chance.”
Djokovic’s withdrawal not only ended his hopes of surpassing Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles but also denied him a milestone 100th career title.
His last Grand Slam triumph came at the 2023 US Open, casting doubts over his chances of becoming the all-time leader in major wins.
Reflecting on his performance, Djokovic remained optimistic: “I thought I played well, as well as I have in the last 12 months. A lot of positives to take in terms of how I played.”
He also extended his support to Zverev, saying, “I wish Sascha all the best. He deserves his first Slam.”
Zverev, who reached his first Australian Open final, will face either world number one Jannik Sinner or American Ben Shelton in Sunday’s final.
The German, a two-time Grand Slam runner-up, has shown renewed determination this season after recovering from a severe ankle injury.
Zverev condemned the boos directed at Djokovic as he exited the court, calling for respect for the Serbian legend.
“Novak Djokovic has given the sport everything for the past 20 years. Please be respectful and show some love for Novak,” Zverev urged the crowd.
The match itself saw moments of brilliance and struggle from both players. Djokovic saved four break points in the opening games, while Zverev survived three break points to keep the set on serve at 2-2.
Despite Djokovic’s inconsistent first serve, the set ended in a tiebreak, where a mishit volley from Djokovic handed Zverev the set. Shortly after, Djokovic approached Zverev to shake hands, conceding the match due to his injury.
Zverev, now just one win away from his first Grand Slam title, enters the final with momentum, while Djokovic faces questions about his future at the top of the sport.
