In a surprising turn of events at the Australian Open 2025, Novak Djokovic retired from his semi-final match against Alexander Zverev. On Friday, January 24, at the Rod Laver Arena, Zverev secured the first set 7-6 (7-5) after an intense battle lasting an hour and 21 minutes. Following the conclusion of the set, Djokovic decided to retire due to injury, shaking hands with the chair umpire.
Injury troubles for Djokovic
Earlier in his match against Carlos Alcaraz, Djokovic had encountered problems with his left leg. After the first set, he took a medical timeout and returned to the court with a heavily taped leg, eventually defeating Alcaraz in four sets. Djokovic, who is now 37, mentioned after that match that had he not won the second set, he would have considered retiring earlier.
Crowed booes Djokovic
Throughout the match, Djokovic’s performance was hindered by his heavily taped leg. The encounter was grueling, marked by long rallies against the younger Zverev. Despite his efforts, Djokovic ultimately chose to retire hurt after the first set, walking off the court amidst a mixed reaction from the spectators, some of whom booed him for his decision to exit.
Support from Alexander Zverev
Following the match, Zverev stepped in to defend Djokovic during his post-match interview. He asked the audience to refrain from booing, emphasizing the dedication Djokovic has shown to tennis over the past two decades. “The very first thing I want to say is – Please do not boo a player when he goes out injured,” said Zverev. “I know everybody paid for tickets and everybody wanted to see a great five-set match. But you have to understand. Novak Djokovic is someone who has given everything to this sport for the past 20 years.”
A day prior, on Thursday, Djokovic reportedly cancelled his training session as a precaution ahead of the crucial semi-final. Entering the match against Zverev with his leg taped, Djokovic chose to bow out after failing to emerge victorious in the first set.
"I played one of my best sets… and I won 7-5 in a tiebreak while he was injured!
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2025
I don't know… maybe Novak is too good for the sport!"@alexzverev.#AO2025 pic.twitter.com/WL0BdGmtMw
Zverev advances to Final
In the first set against Zverev, Djokovic had three opportunities to break serve but could not capitalize on any. Zverev dominated the set with eight aces and 24 winners, yet Djokovic managed to push it to a tie-breaker. However, an unforced error at 6-6 cost Djokovic the set. He aimed for his 11th title at this hard court major and his 100th Australian Open win but will have to wait another year for these milestones.
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