Novak Djokovic’s quest for a record Grand Slam title continued in dramatic circumstances after fifth seed Lorenzo Musetti quit their Australian Open quarter final match with an injury after taking a two-set lead at Melbourne Park on Wednesday.
Musetti’s retirement when leading 6-4 6-3 1-3 meant Djokovic pulled off a great escape at his most successful hunting ground, with the 10 times champion’s bid for a standalone 25th major to break the tie with Margaret Court still alive.
“I don’t know what to say, except that I feel really sorry for him and he was a far better player,” Djokovic said.
“I was on my way home tonight. These things happen in sport and it’s happened to me a few times, but being in quarter-finals of a Grand Slam, two sets to love up and being in full control, I mean it’s so unfortunate.
“I wish him a speedy recovery and he should have been the winner today, there’s no doubt.”
The 38-year-old Serb returned to action after an extended break following fourth-round opponent Jakub Mensik’s walkover on Sunday, and his freshness showed during a sharp start where he brought plenty of variety and grabbed an early break.
Meanwhile Djokovic soldiered on following treatment for a foot blister and went 2-1 up with a break in the third, when it was Musetti’s turn to call the trainer to the court for what appeared like a right thigh issue.
Musetti looked to manage the problem and play on but he was far from 100% and threw in the towel a game later to gasps from the Rod Laver Arena crowd, handing Djokovic his 103rd match win at the tournament to eclipse Roger Federer’s mark.
Djokovic faces the winner of the quarter-final between defending champion Jannik Sinner and Ben Shelton.
“I’m going to double my prayers tonight, for sure, and show gratitude to God for giving me this opportunity,” Djokovic said.
–Reuters–
