Novak Djokovic admitted he got “extremely lucky” as Lorenzo Musetti retired injured from their Australian Open quarter-final while two sets up, sending the 38-year-old through to another semi-final showdown with defending champion Jannik Sinner.
Musetti raced into a 6-4 6-3 lead, playing brilliant tennis, but began to struggle after noticing pain in his leg at the beginning of the second set. The issue became worse at the start of the third, leaving Musetti unable to run, and he retired while 3-1 down.
Djokovic’s latest pursuit of a 25th grand slam title was also aided by a walkover in the fourth round, as Jakub Mensik pulled out of the tournament due to injury, and the 10-time Australian Open champion said he will have to bring his “A-game” to beat Sinner in the semi-finals on Friday.
Sinner beat Ben Shelton in straight-sets in the other quarter-final for his 19th win in a row in Melbourne. The Italian has also beaten Djokovic in their last five meetings, which includes semi-finals at the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon.
Earlier, Elena Rybakina ended Iga Swiatek’s career grand slam attempt with a 7-5 6-1 victory in the women’s quarter-finals. Rybakina, the 2023 runner-up, will play sixth seed Jessica Pegula , who reached her first Australian Open semi-final with a 6-2 7-6 win over Amanda Anisimova.
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Australian Open latest scores and updates
- Novak Djokovic sent through to Australian Open semi-finals as Lorenzo Musetti retires
- Djokovic set for another Jannik Sinner showdown as defending champion beats Ben Shelton
- Elena Rybakina ends Iga Swiatek's career grand slam bid with 7-5 6-1 win
- Jessica Pegula beats Amanda Anisimova to reach first Australian Open semi-final
Lorenzo Musetti devastated by Australian Open retirement: ‘There are no words’
00:00 , Jamie BraidwoodA devastated Lorenzo Musetti said he had “no words” to describe his disappointment after he was forced to retire from his Australian Open quarter-final against Novak Djokovic while two sets up.
The 23-year-old Italian looked on course for the biggest win of his career as he deservedly led Djokovic 6-4 6-3, but the fifth seed was struck down by a right leg injury that became more painful in the third.
Lorenzo Musetti devastated by Australian Open retirement: ‘There are no words’
Aryna Sabalenka frustrated by Australian Open’s ban on wearable fitness trackers
23:00 , Jamie BraidwoodAryna Sabalenka said she didn’t understand why she was ordered to remove a wearable fitness tracker before one of her matches at the Australian Open and urged the grand slam tournaments to reconsider the policy.
Sabalenka, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have been spotted at the Australian Open wearing a Whoop fitness tracker on their wrist but have been told to remove them because they have not been approved by the organisers of the grand slams.
Aryna Sabalenka frustrated by Australian Open’s ban on wearable fitness trackers
Iga Swiatek vows to work on game after career grand slam bid ended by Elena Rybakina
22:00 , Jamie BraidwoodIga Swiatek said she would turn her attention to improving technical aspects of her game after Elena Rybakina ended her career grand slam bid with a 7-5 6-1 win in their Australian Open quarter-final.
The second seed highlighted ongoing work with her serve as the biggest area of improvement, with fifth seed Rybakina taking advantage in a one-sided second set to advance to the semi-finals.
Swiatek, 24, said she would be prepared to miss some WTA 1000 tournaments in order to fix the issues that she was unable to address during the off-season.
Iga Swiatek vows to work on game after career grand slam bid ended by Elena Rybakina
Elina Svitolina aims to bring ‘light’ to war-torn Ukraine as she targets first Australian Open final
21:00 , Jamie BraidwoodAryna Sabalenka and Elina Svitolina will face each other in the Australian Open semi-finals on Thursday.
Elina Svitolina aims to bring ‘light’ to war-torn Ukraine at Australian Open
‘Are we animals in a zoo?’: Why Australian Open stars are frustrated by lack of privacy
20:00 , Jamie BraidwoodIga Swiatek backed Coco Gauff’s calls for more privacy at the Australian Open, saying that players are made to feel like “animals in the zoo” due to the surveillance of behind-the-scenes cameras at the tournament, while Novak Djokovic said he is “against” the constant monitoring.
Gauff was captured smashing her racket seven times following her quarter-final defeat to Elina Svitolina on Tuesday and was frustrated to see her outburst immediately shared across social media.
‘Are we animals in a zoo?’: Australian Open stars frustrated by lack of privacy
Coming up tomorrow: It's women's semi-final day
19:00 , Jamie BraidwoodTomorrow, it’s women’s semi-final day at the Australian Open as Aryna Sabalenka bids to return to a fourth straight final at Melbourne Park,
The world No 1 has been in dominant form as she seeks a third title in four years, following last season’s shock defeat to Madison Keys.
After impressive wins over teenagers Victoria Mboko and Iva Jokic, Sabalenka now faces the experience of Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina.
Svitolina is fresh from demolishing Coco Gauff in the quarter-finals, and has the chance to advance to her first grand slam final at the age of 31.
In the other semi-final, Elena Rybakina, runner-up to Sabalenka in 2023, takes on Jessica Pegula, who like Svitolina is on the hunt of a first major title.
Rybakina continued her strong form from last season’s WTA Finals by ending Iga Swiatek’s career grand slam bid, while Pegula beat Amanda Anisimova.
Australian Open latest order of play and schedule for 2026 tournament
Top four seeds at Australian Open reach men's semi-finals
18:00 , Jamie BraidwoodThe top four seeds have all reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open, setting up a blockbuster day on Friday.
- [1] Carlos Alcaraz v Alexander Zverev [4]
- [3] Novak Djokovic v Jannik Sinner [2]
Why the Australian Open is finally seeing the very best of Carlos Alcaraz
17:00 , Jamie BraidwoodThe world No 1 moved two wins away from completing the career grand slam with a statement win over Alex de Minaur on Tuesday, and said he is nearing his best level ahead of Friday’s semi-final against Alexander Zverev.
Why the Australian Open is finally seeing the very best of Carlos Alcaraz
Jannik Sinner joins impressive list with latest semi-final
16:00 , Jamie BraidwoodJannik Sinner has now reached six grand slam semi-finals in a row, a run that stretches back to a quarter-final defeat to Daniil Medvedev at Wimbledon in July 2024.
According to Opta, only Ivan Lendl, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have done that in the men’s Open era.
Ben Shelton on Jannik Sinner match-up: 'I'm getting better'
15:15 , Jamie BraidwoodBen Shelton looked at the positives even as the American fell to a ninth consecutive defeat to Jannik Sinner, who has now won 22 sets in a row against the left-hander.
“I think my level is better, and I'm getting better and better and becoming a lot less limited. I think this game takes time, and the results don't always come when you want them.
”I'm getting to the point now where I'm getting stopped up by the toughest challenge in the game for the most part, and I do think that I'm close to bringing it all together.
“I think it's just going to take that one time where I do do it to kind of get me over the hump. It's always been that way for me. Certainly not discouraged from a performance like this.
“I want to see myself get out in front and see what I can do from there in a match rather than falling behind just because I know how I feel when I get out in front at slams. I feel like, you know, I'm untouchable. I guarantee the other guys at the top feel the exact same.
“So, for me, it's a matter of time and work just trying to put all the pieces together, because I'm not complete yet, but I feel myself becoming more complete.”
Jannik Sinner calls Novak Djokovic an 'inspiration' before latest meeting
14:45 , Jamie Braidwood“The level he's still playing, he is I think the most professional athlete, you know, we have here in the locker room.
“I also try to be as professional as possible. He has a huge package of experience with himself. You see him on the court. He knows how to handle every situation the best possible way.
“Me, as a 24-year-old, I'm lucky to have someone like him in front of my eyes, and I can hopefully learn something. I feel like every day, every time he plays, I can learn something about him, about Carlos, about all the other great, great players.
“I take this as a positive, you know? I think the way he's playing, the way he's moving, if you are not professional, you don't play at this level. He's an inspiration for all of us and especially the young players.”
Jannik Sinner has flipped rivalry with Novak Djokovic in two years
14:15 , Jamie BraidwoodSince saving match points against Djokovic in a Davis Cup semi-final in November 2023, Sinner has owned his rivalry with the 24-time grand slam champion. He has won their last five meetings in row.
Backing up that victory in Malaga, Sinner’s victory against Djokovic in the Australian Open two years ago proved transformative in the course of his career, leading to the first of his four grand slam titles.
Last year, he beat Djokovic in the semi-finals of Roland Garros and Wimbledon without dropping a set.
“When you make the step ahead in final of a grand slam and winning against Novak, it does change [things] a bit,” said Sinner. “In the same time, you have to do it over and over again.”
'Unfortunate for Lorenzo': Jannik Sinner on Musetti's retirement
13:45 , Jamie Braidwood“I mean, I followed. Before my match I was also sleeping, so you know, I have to do also my thing. Unfortunate for Lorenzo. In the other way, it's very difficult to play against Novak, especially best of five. It's still long.
“I hope it's nothing too tough for Lorenzo, you know, because starting the season with an injury is also not easy.
“At the same time it's going to be very tough match, the next one. We know each other quite well, so it's going to be interesting to see how we handle the situation.”
Lorenzo Musetti: 'Of course it's really painful'
13:15 , Jamie BraidwoodThis is how well Lorenzo Musetti was playing as he marched into a two-set lead against Novak Djokovic.
“I don't know if it's the adductor or... But, of course, I will do all the exams when I will come back home and of course I will update you guys,” Musetti said.
“I never imagined the feeling of leading two sets to zero against Novak and playing like that and have the lead of the match like that.
“Being forced to retire is something that will never imagine. Of course, it's really painful.”
Novak Djokovic gives injury update on ‘biggest concern’ facing Australian Open bid
12:48 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic was pleased to reach the semi-finals of the Australian Open without any “major” physical issues as he issued an update on a troublesome foot blister ahead of his showdown against Jannik Sinner.
Djokovic admitted he was “extremely lucky” to survive his quarter-final meeting with Lorenzo Musetti, as the Italian retired from the match due to a leg injury while leading 2-0 in sets.
It was another boost for Djokovic as the 38-year-old bids to win a record 25th grand slam title and become the oldest Australian Open champion of all time, although he will be the underdog against defending champion Sinner on Friday.
Novak Djokovic gives injury update on ‘biggest concern’ facing Australian Open bid
Why Novak Djokovic’s lucky Australian Open run now faces a major problem
12:23 , Jamie BraidwoodAfter receiving a walkover in the fourth round, Djokovic advanced from the quarter-finals when Lorenzo Musetti retired from two sets up, booking a rematch with Jannik Sinner.
Why Novak Djokovic’s lucky Australian Open run now faces a major problem
Lorenzo Musetti devastated by Australian Open retirement: ‘There are no words’
12:07 , Jamie BraidwoodA devastated Lorenzo Musetti said he had “no words” to describe his disappointment after he was forced to retire from his Australian Open quarter-final against Novak Djokovic while two sets up.
The 23-year-old Italian looked on course for the biggest win of his career as he deservedly led Djokovic 6-4 6-3, but the fifth seed was struck down by a right leg injury that became more painful in the third.
Lorenzo Musetti devastated by Australian Open retirement: ‘There are no words’
Novak Djokovic looks ahead to Jannik Sinner clash: 'He is the favourite'
11:47 , Jamie Braidwood“I mean, [he is the] absolute favourite, but you never know. Hopefully I can deliver my A-game for that matchup, because that's what's going to be needed at least to have a chance. I wasn't playing close to my best today, so I'm going to have to change that around.
“Are they [Sinner and Alcaraz] better right now than me and all the other guys? Yes, they are. I mean, the quality and the level is amazing. It's great. It's phenomenal.
“But does that mean that I walk out with a white flag? No. I'm going to fight until the last shot, until the last point, and do my very best to challenge them.”
Jannik Sinner hoping for another 'great battle' against Novak Djokovic
11:27 , Jamie Braidwood“These are moments you practice for, why you wake up in the morning, and you just look forward to play hopefully a good match.
“If you want to win you have to play at your best, so I'm looking forward to it, but also in the past I had great lessons [against Djokovic].
“It doesn't really matter the result - it improves you as a player and as a person. We are still lucky to have Novak here, playing incredible tennis with his age
“We play for you guys, but we also play for us and hopefully it's gonna be a great battle out here and then we'll see. Of course, it’s gonna be very, very difficult.”
Jannik Sinner: 'I feel stronger physically again'
11:12 , Jamie Braidwood“It’s very, very tough to play against Ben, a huge, huge serve, and I feel like he's improving so much year after year, especially after the off-season.
“You never know how certain players are gonna play against you, changing a lot of things, so very happy about today's performance. As always, thanks for the support. Now let's see what's coming.
“I was struggling [in the third round against Eliot Spizzirri]. We go day by day. I had a great win, win a couple of days ago against fellow Italian [Luciano Darderi], which gives you a confidence boost.
“Today I felt like I was moving again a little bit better. I feel I feel stronger physically again.
“Of course, semis again, I'm very happy to be here again. Of course, we all know what challenge I'm up against next, but I'm looking forward to it and we all hope for a great match.”
Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner to lock horns again at Australian Open
11:03 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic said he will have to bring his “A-game” as he faces another Australian Open showdown with defending champion Jannik Sinner.
Djokovic’s bid for a record 25th grand slam title looked to be over as he trailed Lorenzo Musetti by two sets in the quarter-finals on Wednesday, but the 38-year-old was “extremely lucky” to progress as the Italian retired with a right leg injury.
Having lost to Sinner in each of their last five meetings, including in three grand slam semi-finals, Djokovic will need to improve if he is to end the second seed’s 19-match winning run at Melbourne Park. Sinner returned to the semi-finals with a straight-sets win over Ben Shelton.
Sinner will be bidding to set up a fourth grand slam final in a row against his rival Carlos Alcaraz, who plays third seed Alexander Zverev in the first semi-final on Friday.
Sinner ended Djokovic’s 33-match winning run at the Australian Open by beating the 10-time champion in the 2024 semi-finals, and they are set for another showdown in Melbourne.
Novak Djokovic v Jannik Sinner start time and how to watch Australian Open semi-final
GAME, SET AND MATCH! Jannik Sinner 6-3 6-4 6-4 Ben Shelton
10:56 , Jamie BraidwoodThat’s 19 wins in a row in Melbourne for Jannik Sinner. Such a clean performance, for the most part, against Ben Shelton. He will play Novak Djokovic on Friday.
Eighth seed Shelton had played really well through to the quarter-finals, like Alex de Minaur had been on the other side, but Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz are just on a different level. Sinner has now won nine matches in a row, and 22 sets in a row, against the American.
The top four seeds on the men’s side have reached the semi-finals. It will be No 1 Alcaraz against No 3 Alexander Zverev, and No 2 Sinner against No 4 Djokovic.
Jannik Sinner to serve for place in Australian Open semi-finals
10:52 , Jamie BraidwoodBen Shelton has been far too inconsistent to stand a chance against Jannik Sinner today. A double fault down 15-40, 4-4 in the third set hands the defending champion the chance to serve for a place in the semi-finals.
Sinner has not dropped serve once today.
Novak Djokovic weighs in on Australian Open camera debate
10:35 , Jamie BraidwoodAfter Iga Swiatek backed Coco Gauff’s calls for more privacy at the Australian Open, saying that players are made to feel like “animals in the zoo” due to the surveillance of behind-the-scenes cameras at the tournament, Novak Djokovic said he is also “against” the constant monitoring.
Gauff was captured smashing her racket seven times following her quarter-final defeat to Elina Svitolina on Tuesday and was frustrated to see her outburst immediately shared across social media.
Djokovic empathised with Gauff’s frustration but said that, while he is against the invasion of the players’ space, he cannot see how the tournaments go “backwards” to limit what fans and broadcasters have access to.
‘Are we animals in a zoo?’: Australian Open stars frustrated by lack of privacy
SECOND SET! Jannik Sinner 6-3 6-4 Ben Shelton
10:14 , Jamie BraidwoodThe defending champion tightens his grip on this quarter-final and moves a set away from a showdown with Novak Djokovic on Friday.
The second set was not as explosive from Sinner, and the story here was the Italian fending off three break points from Shelton and taking his only break point opportunity.
Clinical. Shelton had to take one of those chances.
Novak Djokovic says his level will have to improve for semi-finals
10:05 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic says he will have to play a lot better as he prepares for what is likely to be another grand slam semi-final against Jannik Sinner, the defending Australian Open champion.
“I don't want to take out anything from Musetti's variety that he put in and the quality of tennis he put in today. It was great, for sure. But I think I've underperformed for the level that I showed throughout this tournament up to today.
“I have to play better, no doubt about it. I know that if I'm feeling well and the body is holding on and I'm playing well then I always have a chance. It's semifinals of a grand slam, so in terms of level of confidence and motivation, it's always there. It must be. Otherwise, what's the point of competing?
So I've been in this situation many, many times in my career, and obviously four times last year. I'm glad to repeat the best Grand Slam result from last year, which is reaching semis. You know, I know that it's only going to get tougher from here, but I have to be ready for it.
“Now, I cannot predict the result of whether I'm going to play well or not, but I'm definitely going to give my best.”
Novak Djokovic says blisters not a major concern ahead of semi-finals
09:41 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic took a medical timeout of his own at the end of the second set and before the start of the third to have a blister on his toe taped.
But he says it’s not hindering his movement ahead of the semi-finals.
“That's the biggest of my concerns, to be honest. I don't have any other major issues,” Djokovic said.
“I mean, you always have some minor issues with your body, at least for me every single day. But major issues, no.
“Thankfully, that's still not posing a challenge for me and obstacle in order for me to be able to play and move around the way I want to.”
FIRST SET! Jannik Sinner 6-3 Ben Shelton
09:23 , Jamie BraidwoodJannik Sinner is looking very strong as he takes the first set 6-3 against Ben Shelton. He finishes it with an ace: 18 winners to just four unforced errors from the defending champion.
Shelton is finding a decent level of serving, at 65%, but he is winning just 35% of his second-serve points. Sinner is dominating on the return, while solid on serve, while also hitting shots like this.
Lorenzo Musetti opens up on leg injury
09:09 , Jamie BraidwoodA really tough scene as Lorenzo Musetti is forced to talk through how he was feeling during the match and how his condition worsened at the stat of the third set.
“I felt it at the beginning of the second set. I felt there was something strange in my right leg. I continued to play, because I was playing really, really, really well, but I was feeling that the pain was increasing, and the problem was not getting away.
“At the end, when I took the medical time-out, to stay three minute seated, and when I started to play again, I felt even more and was getting higher and higher the level of the pain.”
'It's really painful': Lorenzo Musetti on his retirement
08:48 , Jamie BraidwoodLorenzo Musetti said the circumstances of his retirement, in leading Novak Djokovic and looking on course to record just his second win in 11 attempts against the 24-time grand slam champion, added to pain.
“Definitely yes. Honestly, I never imagined the feeling of leading two sets to zero against Novak and playing like that. Having the lead of the match like that and being forced to retire is something that I will never imagine. Of course, it's really painful.”
Lorenzo Musetti: 'There are no words to describe how I'm feeling'
08:25 , Jamie BraidwoodAppearing at his press conference, a devastated Lorenzo Musetti says he felt some pain in his right leg at the beginning of the second set. The pain got worse in the third set, to the point where he could not continue.
“I felt there was something strange in my right leg. I continued to play, because I was playing really, really, really well, but I was feeling that the pain was increasing, and the problem was not going away.
“At the end, when I took the medical time-out, to stay three minutes seated, and when I started to play again, I felt even more and was getting higher and higher the level of the pain.
“We have done all the exams and tests before starting the season to see and to try and prevent these kind of injuries, and then they say nothing came out. So I honestly have no words to describe how I'm feeling right now and how tough is for me this injury in this moment.”
Novak Djokovic’s historic Australian Open bid is turning into a tournament of luck
08:08 , Jamie BraidwoodAfter receiving a walkover in the fourth round, Djokovic advanced from the quarter-finals when Lorenzo Musetti retired from two sets up.
Novak Djokovic’s historic Australian Open bid is turning into a tournament of luck
Next up: Jannik Sinner v Ben Shelton
07:56 , Jamie BraidwoodJannik Sinner aims to continue his winning run at the Australian Open as Ben Shelton bids for revenge against the defending champion in the quarter-finals, where the winner will play Novak Djokovic.
Sinner has battled physical difficulties in the heat to extend his win-streak in Melbourne to 18 matches, a run that includes a semi-final win over Shelton year.
The American eighth seed believes he is a different player now and the left-hander has been in dangerous form, having overcome Casper Ruud in his previous match, but the 23-year-old has a difficult record against Sinner.
Last year, Sinner rolled past Shelton 7-6 (7-2) 6-2 6-2, and he will look to match the gathering pace of rival Carlos Alcaraz after he progressed to his first Australian Open semi-final.
How lucky can Novak Djokovic get?
07:45 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic was on his way home. Two sets down to Lorenzo Musetti, the dream of a 25th grand slam title at the Australian Open looked to be fading from sight.
He could have had no complaints, such was his difficultly in keeping the ball in the court as the timing of his shots abandoned him. The unforced error count stood at 31 and was rising. A troublesome blister on his right toe forced a medical timeout.
But then the tennis gods answered his prayers. In the second game of the third set, Musetti tweaked his groin while serving. The look on the Italian’s face as he winced towards his coaches said it all: he was done. Unable to run side to side, he retired to send Djokovic through.
Djokovic remains tied with Federer on 102 Australian Open wins
07:27 , Jamie BraidwoodA 13th Australian Open semi-final for Novak Djokovic. Until two years ago, he had never lost one.
Also, after a walkover and a withdrawal, Djokovic remains tied with Roger Federer on 102 wins at the Australian Open, despite advancing to the final four.
Novak Djokovic not happy with performance after reaching semi-finals
07:13 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic will play either Jannik Sinner or Ben Shelton in the semi-finals. He has made it very clear that he will need to improve on Friday. Sounds like Djokovic lost some rhythm after his walkover against Jakub Mensik in the fourth round.
“I'll watch that match with my team and try to get some insights of of both of these guys' game. Nevertheless, my main priority remains my game. I played really well until today, throughout the whole tournament.
”Today, I'm definitely not happy with my performance, but it's another day in the office and hopefully in the in the in a couple of days' time I can come out and being at my best because that's what's going to be needed.”
Djokovic: 'I got extremely lucky - I'm gonna do my best to use it'
07:05 , Jamie Braidwood”I just wasn't feeling the ball today, the first couple of sets. But that's also due to his quality and his variety in the game.
“I'm just extremely lucky to get to get through this one today.
“I had a walkover in the fourth round and today should have been beaten, and then two sets down and I get the win, so I mean.
“I'm gonna double my prayers tonight for sure, and gratitude to God for really giving me this opportunity once again.
“I'm gonna do my best in a couple of days to use it.”
A devastating retirement for Lorenzo Musetti
07:01 , Jamie BraidwoodSo gutting for Lorenzo Musetti. Two sets up, playing brilliant tennis, closing in on a win against Novak Djokovic, the Italian is struck down by a groin injury.
It was so severe that Musetti couldn’t run, and he lasted just a couple more games. It’s devastating for the Italian, who also retired from his French Open semi-final against Carlos Alcaraz last season.
He is denied what would have been the best win of his career.
Novak Djokovic: 'I was on my way home tonight'
06:53 , Jamie Braidwood“I don't know what to say except that you know, I feel really sorry for him and he was a far better player.
”I was on my way home tonight. Don't know what to say.
“I mean, this, this kind of thing is happening in sport and it happened to me a few times.
“Being in quarters of a Grand Slam, two sets to love up and being in full control, I mean, so unfortunate.
“I don't know what else I can say. I really wish him a speedy recovery and he should have been a winner today, there's no doubt.”
Djokovic through to semi-finals
06:48 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic looks stunned. What an extremely fortunate break. Such a shame for Musetti, who was looking so good in taking a two-set lead.
Djokovic is now speaking on court. He is through to the semi-finals, but cannot celebrate this.
RETIREMENT! Musetti shakes hands!
06:45 , Jamie BraidwoodOh noooo.
Musetti is done.
He shakes hands with Djokovic and this match is over.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-6 3-1 Lorenzo Musetti*
06:43 , Jamie BraidwoodMusetti is going for broke on his forehand, lashing the ball at Djokovic when it’s in reach. But I don’t think he can run.
Djokovic holds with a smash, Musetti was resigned that he was not getting there.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-6 2-1 Lorenzo Musetti
06:40 , Jamie BraidwoodMusetti, who has a horrible record with injuries and retired from his French Open semi-final against Carlos Alcaraz last season, has received significant treatment on his right leg.
Djokovic, between sets, received treatment on his blisters. But Musetti is back on court and we are about to get underway. Djokovic is up by a break in this set.
We’ve just passed the two-hour mark.
BREAK! *Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-6 2-1 Lorenzo Musetti
06:36 , Jamie BraidwoodNow Musetti has called the trainer! It looks like he tweaked something in that double fault. What awful timing.
BREAK! *Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-6 2-1 Lorenzo Musetti
06:34 , Jamie BraidwoodA loose game from Musetti, a lifeline for Djokovic! The Italian hangs his head after making a double fault and a couple of errors. He is broken to love.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-6 1-1 Lorenzo Musetti*
06:31 , Jamie BraidwoodThat might have been Djokovic’s simplest game for a while, with his serve improving, but it still featured a stunning Musetti backhand winner.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-6 0-1 Lorenzo Musetti
06:28 , Jamie BraidwoodBrilliant defence from Musetti as Djokovic is forced into an overhead miss. Djokovic has recovered from two sets down eight times at grand slams. He needs another one here.
SECOND SET! Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-6 Lorenzo Musetti*
06:22 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic is now taking a medical timeout to receive treatment on a blister.
Djokovic looked in pain as his toes were strapped up.
SECOND SET! Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-6 Lorenzo Musetti*
06:20 , Jamie BraidwoodMusetti lands the forehand winner down the line to take a two-set lead! Extraordinary. Djokovic could have won that game if he had not owned up to touching the ball!
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-5 Lorenzo Musetti
06:18 , Jamie BraidwoodWow! Djokovic finds the outside of the line and Musetti goes wide on the angled volley, but Djokovic concedes the point as he admits the ball brushed the outside of his racket!
That’s extraordinary sportsmanship, at a big moment, because it would have been 40-15 to Djokovic. Instead, he is taken into deuce, and then set point as Djokovic nets!
Set point to Musetti!
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-5 Lorenzo Musetti
06:11 , Jamie BraidwoodMusetti floats a backhand slice long and Djokovic is offered some encouragement ahead of a crucial 30-30 point.
After a let, Musetti responds with an ace out wide - clutch. Musetti will be grateful to see another error from Djokovic, the forehand sprayed wide.
His timing looks so off.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 3-4 Lorenzo Musetti*
06:06 , Jamie BraidwoodYou know Djokovic is struggling when he is putting relatively simple drop shots into the net under no pressure.
He does, though, hold serve by landing a forehand winner and ace, keeping Musetti in sight.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 2-4 Lorenzo Musetti*
06:01 , Jamie BraidwoodStunning, again, from Musetti, with a chipped drop shot finding the line and the spin taking it away from the chasing Djokovic.
But in this game things can all change in a moment and Djokovic gets a look at break point as Musetti balloons his forehand long!
Djokovic looked to be in control of the point in a 17-shot rally, but Djokovic lands his forehand into the net.
Musetti keeps his cool to control a series of overheads. Djokovic nets after being stretched out wide.
Novak Djokovic 4-6 2-3 Lorenzo Musetti*
05:55 , Jamie BraidwoodThis has been exhibition stuff from Musetti, who is keeping the single-backhander alive with a beautiful winner down the line. Djokovic holds.
*Novak Djokovic 4-6 1-3 Lorenzo Musetti
05:51 , Jamie BraidwoodMusetti holds and Djokovic is now looking to be in some trouble. He makes another error on the forehand, blasting wide, before Musetti seals it with an ace.
BREAK! Novak Djokovic 4-6 1-2 Lorenzo Musetti*
05:47 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic strikes the top of the net and doesn’t get the bounce as he is dragged into deuce.
And the errors just keep piling up! Two more from Djokovic, including a forehand long on break point, and Musetti breaks ahead once more.
That’s five unforced errors in the second set for Djokovic already, 23 overall!
BREAK! *Novak Djokovic 4-6 1-1 Lorenzo Musetti
05:41 , Jamie BraidwoodWhat’s the Italian for complete opposite? After a golden game of winners, Musetti is broken to love with a string of errors. Djokovic puts the pressure on behind the return and breaks straight back.
BREAK! Novak Djokovic 4-6 0-1 Lorenzo Musetti*
05:37 , Jamie BraidwoodMusetti comes flying out of the blocks with back-to-back-to-back winners! The first is a forehand return down the line, then Musetti produces a stunning crosscourt forehand, that dips behind Djokovic!
Musetti then makes it three in a row with a flying forehand, bringing three break points.
And Musetti takes it with a lob! Djokovic is stranded at the net and the Italian finds the touch.
That’s a stunning game from the 23-year-old. Magical. He moves a set and a break up.
FIRST SET! *Novak Djokovic 4-6 Lorenzo Musetti
05:32 , Jamie BraidwoodA sign of nerves from Musetti as he nudges a volley wide from the net on the opening point?
Perhaps, but Musetti doesn’t show then as the Italian finds two big serves. Djokovic goes long on the return and Musetti has two set points.
And Musetti takes it with a scorching forehand down the line, striking it on the rise! Sublime.
But Djokovic is behind.
Novak Djokovic 4-5 Lorenzo Musetti*
05:28 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic steadies, pulling Musetti back into the net with a drop shot and then finishing the game with an ace.
Can the Italian serve this out or will Djokovic preserve his record of not dropping a set yet this tournament?
*Novak Djokovic 3-5 Lorenzo Musetti
05:24 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic is handed a time violation by British umpire James Keothavong as he emerges from the changeover.
He is starting to grumble to his team, as well, and the frustration will be rising as he puts a simple forehand into the net.
Musetti moves a game away from the set.
Novak Djokovic 3-4 Lorenzo Musetti*
05:18 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic’s 15th unforced error brings up three break points for Musetti, to really take a hold on this opening set.
Djokovic goes big but this time finds control as he scorches the forehand winner down the line.
And Djokovic gets back to deuce! He pins Musetti behind the baseline with big striking then finishes the point with a volley.
Has Djokovic woken up? He blasts another forehand winner on his way to getting a tough hold from 0-40 down.
*Novak Djokovic 2-4 Lorenzo Musetti
05:12 , Jamie BraidwoodOh that is gorgeous from Musetti! With Djokovic closing in to the net, the Italian produces the one-handed backhand pass crosscourt. Sublime.
Djokovic needs a response, now down 0-30.
*Novak Djokovic 2-4 Lorenzo Musetti
05:11 , Jamie BraidwoodMusetti now holds to love as Djokovic cracks a forehand into the net.
The 38-year-old started this match well and looked sharp in taking a 2-0 lead in games, but some alarm bells could be ringing now.
BREAK! Novak Djokovic 2-3 Lorenzo Musetti*
05:08 , Jamie BraidwoodTwo more errors from Djokovic, pulling wide on the forehand on consecutive points, and Musetti senses his moment!
Djokovic charges into the net behind the serve but Musetti finds the one-handed backhand pass down the line!
Two break points.... and Musetti defies Djokovic with stunning defence! He chases after the smashes from Djokovic, hanging up lobs that catch the back of the court.
Then, Musetti fires an overhead of his own that scorches past Djokovic. The Italian breaks ahead with his third game in a row.
Djokovic’s error count reads 13 in five games.
*Novak Djokovic 2-2 Lorenzo Musetti
05:02 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic’s serve has been firing in the first couple of games but the unforced errors, with two backhands and a forehand into the net on the previous game, are starting to ramp up. He misses on a forehand down the line and Musetti sees 40-15.
Djokovic pulls it back to deuce as Musetti slices long, but then Djokovic puts too much on the backhand down the line after pulling the trigger following a 16-shot rally. Djokovic then goes wide on the backhand crosscourt.
Lots of errors now.
BREAK! Novak Djokovic 2-1 Lorenzo Musetti*
04:56 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic pays for the wild overhead as Musetti breaks back! After finding his feet, Musetti is now winning the shorter exchanges at the net. He guides a deft chip onto the line then Djokovic whacks a forehand into the net to break.
*Novak Djokovic 2-0 Lorenzo Musetti
04:54 , Jamie BraidwoodThere is lovely shape to some of these points already. Djokovic looks like he is going to be using drop shots and short, sliced approaches to mix up the rallies.
Djokovic faces 15-30 when he can’t get under the volley at the net but finds a wonderful drop shot that Musetti can’t reach. A couple of backhand misses down the line from Djokovic extends the game.
On deuce, Musetti reaches a Djokovic smash and hangs up another high ball... but Djokovic shanks it long of the baseline! Even Djokovic can offer a grin. But it brings break point.
BREAK! *Novak Djokovic 2-0 Lorenzo Musetti
04:46 , Jamie BraidwoodThe perfect start from Djokovic. Musetti double-faults to start the game then comes under pressure with a wild forehand miss. Djokovic closes the net to swat away the volley and brings up 0-40.
Musetti saves the first couple of break points, but then goes long on the forehand!
Novak Djokovic 1-0 Lorenzo Musetti*
04:41 , Jamie BraidwoodMusetti is an excellent shotmaker and has found some confidence behind a more aggressive approach on hard-courts. The Italian lands a beautiful backhand slice down the line.
Djokovic gets the opening hold, finding the serve and then going on the attack against the Italian’s one-handed backhand with the forehand strike.
*Novak Djokovic 0-0 Lorenzo Musetti
04:38 , Jamie BraidwoodAfter a walkover in round four, Djokovic will serve to start this quarter-final.
Novak Djokovic v Lorenzo Musetti
04:30 , Jamie BraidwoodHere we go! This is going to be some introduction for the 10-time champion as Novak Djokovic leads Lorenzo Musetti out onto the Rod Laver Arena.
There’s 15 years between Djokovic and Musetti, who is bidding for his first Australian Open semi-final. It’s only fourth against fifth in terms of seeding, though.
Novak Djokovic bids for Australian Open semi-finals next
04:24 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic against Lorenzo Musetti will be next up on Rod Laver Arena.
Djokovic, at 38, continues his hunt for a 25th grand slam title. Victory today would secure a record-extending 54th grand slam semi-final.
Jessica Pegula beats Amanda Anisimova to reach first Australian Open semi-final
04:19 , Jamie BraidwoodJessica Pegula beats a frustrated Amanda Anisimova to reach her first Australian Open semi-final, where she will face Elena Rybakina.
Anisimova struggled with her serve, making double faults at key moments deep in the second set, but managed to force a tiebreak by breaking Pegula when she served for the match.
Pegula, who is so steady, regathered to win the second-set tiebreak. A big breakthrough for the 31-year-old American, 6-2 7-6 (6-1).
“It’s awesome. I’ve been able to go deeper at the US Open in the last couple of years. Here, I was like, it’s got to coming. I’ve played good tennis here. I’ve been waiting for the time to break through.”
Iga Swiatek vows to work on game after career grand slam bid ended by Elena Rybakina
04:05 , Jamie BraidwoodIga Swiatek said she would turn her attention to improving technical aspects of her game after Elena Rybakina ended her career grand slam bid with a 7-5 6-1 win in their Australian Open quarter-final.
The second seed highlighted ongoing work with her serve as the biggest area of improvement, with fifth seed Rybakina taking advantage in a one-sided second set to advance to the semi-finals.
Swiatek, 24, said she would be prepared to miss some WTA 1000 tournaments in order to fix the issues that she was unable to address during the off-season.
Iga Swiatek vows to work on game after career grand slam bid ended by Elena Rybakina
Jessica Pegula leads Amanda Anisimova in quarter-final
03:40 , Jamie BraidwoodThe composure and stability of Jessica Pegula is standing in sharp contrast to the despair of Amanda Anisimova as the Wimbledon and US Open runner-up attempts to rein in her game in the second set of the quarter-final.
Pegula won the first set 6-2, with Anisimova struggling behind her forehand.
Elena Rybakina ends Iga Swiatek's career grand slam bid with 7-5 6-1 win
03:34 , Jamie BraidwoodFifth seed Elena Rybakina booked her place in the Australian Open semi-finals with a dominant second set display to hand six-time grand slam champion Iga Swiatek a 7-5 6-1 defeat at Melbourne Park.
Looking to lift the trophy for the first time, the 28-year-old will take on either Jessica Pegula or Amanda Anisimova place in Saturday's final.
"Really pleased with the win," said Rybakina. "We know each other pretty well and I was just trying to stay aggressive.
"I feel like in the first set for both of us the first serve wasn't working so we were trying to step in on the second serve to put pressure on each other.
"I think in the second, I just started to play more free, serve better and I'm really happy with the win."
Lorenzo Musetti ready for Novak Djokovic battle
03:32 , Jamie BraidwoodDjokovic has beaten Musetti in nine of their 10 meetings, including the last six in a row. Their most recent battle came in the Athens final late last season, as Djokovic won his 101st career title in a three-hour battle.
Before then, Djokovic also defeated Musetti in the semi-finals of Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics, in two of their four meetings from the 2024 season, while the 23-year-old’s only win came on clay in Monte Carlo in 2023.
“Playing against Novak is always challenging, especially here, which he won many, many, many times,” Musetti said.
“I think it will be a tough match, for sure. Of course, he's feeling good. He hasn’t lost a set. He had the chance to rest for a few days. I think at this age, I think he was happy about it, of course, to try to be well-prepared and well-relaxed for this match.
“But of course we know each other pretty well because we played a lot. Just won once against him. Hopefully I'll take my revenge, because last time in Athens we were really, really close. I feel like I have another chance now.”
Novak Djokovic returns to action after fourth-round walkover
03:30 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic received a walkover to the last-eight after his fourth-round opponent Jakub Mensik withdrew from the tournament due to injury, which could be crucial to his chances of winning a 25th grand slam title.
The 10-time Australian Open champion is bidding to reach a fifth grand slam semi-final in a row at the age of 38 as he seeks more tennis history in Melbourne.
“There's always something that is happening with the body, but I think generally I feel as good as I have felt in a while,” Djokovic said after his third-round win over Botic van de Zandschulp, where he narrowly avoided being defaulted from the tournament after striking a ball near the head of a ball girl.
"I cannot predict the future, I don't know how things are going to unfold from this day onwards, but I'm doing everything I can."
Good morning and welcome
03:27 , Jamie BraidwoodNovak Djokovic bids for another grand slam semi-final at the Australian Open as he takes on fifth seed Lorenzo Musetti.
Djokovic reached all four semi-finals at the grand slam tournaments last year, at the age of 38, only to run into injury or one of Jannik Sinner or Carlos Alcaraz.
His latest pursuit of a 25th grand slam title has been aided by a walkover in the fourth round, as Jakub Mensik pulled out of the tournament due to injury.
Italian Musetti, who is through to his first Australian Open semi-final, will be a tough test, but Djokovic won their last meeting in an epic three-hour Athens final at the end of last year.
Musetti has only won one of his 10 matches against Djokovic, who is a 10-time champion at Melbourne Park.
