How Novak Djokovic survived Lorenzo Musetti scare to enter Australian Open semis; Fifth-seed Italian concedes despite having two-set lead

Novak Djokovic’s pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam continued under dramatic circumstances at the Australian Open as fifth-seeded Lorenzo Musetti retired injured after holding a two-set lead in their quarter-final match on Wednesday at Melbourne Park. Musetti’s retirement at 6-4, 6-3, 1-3 allowed Djokovic to stage a remarkable escape, keeping his hopes alive to match Margaret Court’s tally of major titles.


The 38-year-old Serb, coming off an extended break following Jakub Mensik’s walkover in the fourth round, showed freshness early in the match, securing an early break. However, Djokovic’s occasional loose points allowed the young Italian to level at 2-2, before Musetti surged ahead, winning the opening set on serve with a brilliant overhead winner.



"I feel really sorry for him, he was the far better player, I was on my way home tonight," said Djokovic after the win.

"It has happened to me a few times. He was in full control.

"So unfortunate, I don't what else to say. He should have been the winner today no doubt. I am extremely lucky to get through this one today."

The second set saw both players exchange fiery winners, with Musetti breaking early, briefly losing the advantage, then reasserting his dominance to take a two-set lead and put Djokovic on the defensive. Despite a foot blister that required treatment, Djokovic fought back in the third set, breaking to lead 2-1.


It was at this point that Musetti called the trainer for what appeared to be a right-thigh injury. Struggling to continue at full capacity, the 23-year-old Italian ultimately retired, leaving the crowd in gasps and handing Djokovic his 103rd match win at the tournament, surpassing Roger Federer’s record.

Djokovic now advances to the semifinals, where he will face the winner of the quarter-final clash between defending champion Jannik Sinner and Ben Shelton. The Serb’s dramatic survival underscores his resilience and determination as he chases history at Melbourne Park.