By Richard Pagliaro | @TennisNow | January 24, 2025
Image Credit: Clive Brunskill/Getty
Jannik Sinner was taken by surprise at the news of Novak Djokovic’s injury-related withdrawal from the Australian Open semis.
The world No. 1 will soon feel the ramifications in the upcoming final.
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As the defending AO champion, Sinner enters Sunday’s match riding an impressive 20-match winning streak against Alexander Zverev, who had Djokovic on the ropes at 7-6(5) before the Serbian star had to retire due to a torn muscle.
With the stakes high for his third consecutive hard-court major, Sinner acknowledged the significance of Djokovic’s exit: “If Novak can’t continue, it clearly indicates he’s dealing with serious issues.”
“I was warming up and missed it live,” Sinner reflected on Djokovic’s retirement. “It’s unfortunate, particularly at such a crucial stage of a Grand Slam.”
“Novak has battled physical challenges before and always pushed through. He has dedicated so much to this sport throughout his career.”
“It’s a tough situation, and I sincerely wish him a swift recovery.”