Djokovic admits harsh reality ahead of the big clash with Sinner

Novak Djokovic is having an incredible journey at this year's Australian Open.

Djokovic continues his quest for the title Australian Open his 11th career title in an emotional storyline, as he advanced to the semifinals after an incomplete victory over Lorenzo Musetti. The Serbian player lost the first two sets 4-6, 3-6, before Musetti was forced to retire due to a right leg injury - at the moment Djokovic was leading by one break in the third set.

At 38 years old, Djokovic frankly admitted that luck was on his side. "Today, I was really fortunate." Djokovic said after the match. "This is not the way I wanted to win, but in tennis, sometimes you have to accept any path to move forward."

This victory brought Djokovic to 103 wins at Melbourne Park, surpassing the previous record held by Roger Federer. However, the 24-time Grand Slam champion showed regret for his opponent.

"When you reach a Grand Slam quarterfinal, lead by two sets and fully control the match, then have to retire due to injury – that’s unfortunate. Honestly, Lorenzo should have won today." Nole shared.

The Grand Slam record holder also admitted he came very close to defeat. "I was almost eliminated tonight. I didn’t feel the ball well because of the quality and variety in Lorenzo’s game. Extremely lucky is the most accurate phrase."

In this year’s Australian Open semifinal, Novak Djokovic will face the defending champion Jannik Sinner – someone Nole has not beaten since the 2023 ATP Finals final. When asked whether he is "chasing" the younger generation like Sinner or Carlos Alcaraz, Djokovic confidently denied it: "Honestly, I don’t feel like I’m chasing anything. I’m creating my own history."

The semifinal match between Djokovic and Sinner will take place on January 30, Vietnam time.