In reviewing the career of Novak Djokovic always successful, also controversial, perhaps left booed from the Grand Slam that he dominated the most, the Australian Open. If Roger Federer is revered at Wimbledon and Roland Garros has turned Rafa Nadal into his own myth, the Serbian has never become very loved in Melbourne beyond the numerous Serbian fans. This Friday, in their semifinals against Alexander Zverev that animosity became noise.
Djokovic had to retire at the end of the first set due to the tear in his left adductor that he had been carrying since the quarterfinals against Carlos Alcaraz and, as he did so, he received a loud whistle. Until then he had tried everything, he had fought to take that first set to the tie-break, he had extended it to one hour and 21 minutes, but after losing it 7-6(5) he decided that it was better to leave it.
“Do not whistle at a player when he retires due to an injury, please. I know you have paid, but Djokovic has given everything to tennis for 25 years. He won this title with a tear in his thigh and abdominal. Show a little love towards him,” defended Zverev, who this Sunday will face Jannik Sinner in the final who defeated Ben Shelton 7-6(2), 6-2 and 6-2. The cheapest ticket for both semifinals was around 350 euros and the public’s annoyance was understandable, but the protest against someone who was champion there up to 10 times was strange.
A possible withdrawal
Djokovic, who in previous matches had confronted the stands, this time only saluted and left without further ado. Then, at a press conference, he acknowledged that his left thigh hurt “too much” and that this time he could not hide it, as he did two years ago with a similar injury. “In the quarterfinals I suffered a muscle tear. Two years ago I managed it better and on the court it didn’t bother me so much. This time it hasn’t been the case,” said the Serbian, who at times seemed capable of continuing.
Although Zverev appeared on the court more focused than ever, with a very high percentage of firsts (76%) and was successful with his forehand (24 winners in just one set), Djokovic survived until the tie-break, saving up to five balls. of break. Once again, a psychological battle like the one experienced in the quarterfinals was hinted at, but this time it ended sooner.
Later, amidst the disappointment, Djokovic assured that in the final he will encourage Zverev – “he deserves his first Grand Slam” – and left both his relationship with Andy Murray – recently hired as his coach – and his own career in the air. “I don’t know if I’ll come back here, there are options that I won’t. Who knows? I want to, I want to continue, but I’ll have to see how the year goes,” he concluded.