Djokovic into Australian Open semifinals after Musetti retires hurt

Novak Djokovic Advances to Australian Open Semi-Finals After Musetti Retirement. Ten-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic reached the semi-finals of the 2026 Australian Open after a dramatic turn of events in his quarter-final match against Lorenzo Musetti. The fifth-seeded Italian was in control for much of the contest, claiming the first two sets 6-4, 6-3, and holding a 3-1 lead in the third.

Musetti appeared dominant, using his powerful groundstrokes and aggressive court positioning to keep Djokovic on the defensive. The match, however, took a sudden twist when Musetti began struggling with an injury to his upper right leg. Despite receiving treatment on-court, his movement remained severely restricted, forcing him to retire mid-match.

Djokovic, who had faced strong resistance from the young Italian, was visibly relieved as he progressed to the semi-finals. “It’s never easy to play someone in that form, and I was preparing for a tough battle,” Djokovic said after the match. “I hope Lorenzo recovers quickly and we see him back on court soon.”

The Serbian star will now await the winner of the other quarter-final clash to determine his opponent in the last four. With his ten Australian Open titles, Djokovic remains a firm favorite to challenge for a record-extending 11th crown.