Australian Open 2025: Seventh seed Novak Djokovic retired from his semi-final match against Alexander Zverev at the Rod Laver Arena after losing the first set.
Novak Djokovic’s bid for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title came to a heartbreaking end on Friday when he was forced to retire during his Australian Open semifinal clash against Germany’s Alexander Zverev. The 37-year-old Serbian tennis legend, who has battled injuries throughout the tournament, succumbed to a muscle tear in his upper left leg, leaving his future at Melbourne Park in question. Zverev, on the other hand, advanced to his first Australian Open final after winning the first set 7-6 (7/5).
Djokovic’s Physical Struggles Continue
The 37-year-old Serbian star entered the match with his upper left leg heavily taped, a lingering issue from his grueling quarterfinal victory against Carlos Alcaraz. Despite his reputation for overcoming physical setbacks, Djokovic’s movement was visibly affected as the match progressed. The opening set saw moments of brilliance from the Serbian, including saving four break points, but it was clear that his body was struggling to keep up with the demands of a high-stakes semifinal.
As the set headed into a tiebreak, Djokovic’s performance faltered. A rare misstep saw him net a routine volley, handing Zverev the first set. Immediately after the set, Djokovic approached the net, shook hands with Zverev, and signaled his retirement, bringing an abrupt end to the contest.
Novak Djokovic has retired from the #AusOpen semi-final with injury
Djokovic stuns the Melbourne crowd as he shakes Alexander Zverev’s hand and departs the court after just one set pic.twitter.com/LUxT3MvRq9
— Eurosport (@eurosport) January 24, 2025
“This Could Be My Last Australian Open”
Djokovic’s post-match comments cast doubt on his future appearances at the Australian Open. When asked if this could be his final outing at Melbourne Park, he said, “There is a chance. Who knows? I’ll have to see how the season goes. I want to keep going, but whether I’m going to have a revised schedule for next year, I’m not sure.”
Despite the setback, Djokovic remained optimistic about his performance throughout the tournament. “I actually thought I played really well, as well as I’ve played in the last 12 months. I liked my chances if I was physically fit and ready to battle,” he reflected. “I wish Sascha [Zverev] all the best. He deserves his first Slam. I’ll be cheering for him.”
Alexander Zverev’s Road to the Final
For Alexander Zverev, the victory marked a significant milestone in his career. The 26-year-old German has been a Grand Slam runner-up twice before, at the 2020 US Open and the 2024 French Open, but this will be his first appearance in an Australian Open final. Zverev, who ended 2024 as the world No. 2, has been in exceptional form, showcasing the level of tennis that once positioned him as a rising star in the sport.
Zverev expressed his disappointment with the crowd’s reaction to Djokovic’s retirement. “Novak Djokovic is somebody that has given to the sport for the past 20 years absolutely everything of his life,” he said during his on-court interview. “Please be respectful and really, really show some love for Novak as well.”
A Tense First Set
The first set was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both players showcasing moments of brilliance and vulnerability. Djokovic, known for his defensive prowess, saved four break points in his opening service games, while Zverev showcased his offensive capabilities by saving three break points of his own.
The tiebreak was a tight affair, but a costly unforced error from Djokovic—netting an easy volley—allowed Zverev to clinch the set. It was at this point that Djokovic decided to retire, recognizing that continuing the match would only exacerbate his injury.
What’s Next for Zverev?
Zverev’s victory sets up a final clash against either world No. 1 Jannik Sinner or American 21st seed Ben Shelton. The German enters the final with momentum and confidence, but he remains cautious about the challenge ahead. “You’re not going to get to the semis of a Grand Slam by not deserving to be there and not playing great tennis,” Zverev said. “I’m going to prepare myself for a tough battle.”
Having battled back from a severe ankle injury and consistently delivered strong performances throughout 2024, Zverev is eager to capitalize on this opportunity and secure his first Grand Slam title.
Djokovic’s Legacy and Uncertain Future
Djokovic’s retirement also raises questions about his quest to surpass Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles. The Serbian has now gone five Grand Slams without adding to his tally, with his last victory coming at the 2023 US Open. Additionally, his semifinal exit in Melbourne deprived him of the chance to secure his 100th career title.
While Djokovic’s future remains uncertain, his impact on the sport is undeniable. With 10 Australian Open titles to his name and a career that has defined an era of tennis, the Serbian legend’s absence will undoubtedly leave a void in the tournament.
A Final Showdown Awaits
As the Australian Open nears its conclusion, all eyes will be on the final matchup. Whether it’s Jannik Sinner or Ben Shelton facing Zverev, the stage is set for an exciting finish to the tournament. For Zverev, the chance to win his maiden Grand Slam title represents the culmination of years of perseverance and hard work. For Djokovic, the focus shifts to recovery and deciding what lies ahead in his illustrious career.
In the meantime, the tennis world will reflect on an Australian Open semifinal that delivered drama, heartbreak, and a glimpse into the ever-changing landscape of the sport.
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