Novak Djokovic Faces Crowd Backlash After Retiring Mid-Match in Semi-Final Against Zverev

Novak Djokovic’s run at the Australian Open 2025 ended abruptly during his semi-final match against Alexander Zverev at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne.

After losing the first set 7-6 in a tiebreak, Djokovic retired from the match, citing a muscle tear, leaving the crowd divided in their reaction.

Injury Forces Djokovic to Retire

Djokovic entered the semi-final with his upper left leg heavily taped, a precaution stemming from an injury sustained during his quarter-final clash with Carlos Alcaraz.

Despite enduring intense rallies in the first set against Zverev, he chose to retire after losing the set, walking off the court amidst a chorus of boos from the audience.

Speaking about the injury, Djokovic later said, “Yes, I did everything I possibly can to basically manage the muscle tear I had. Yes, medications and I guess the strap, and the physio helped to some extent today. But yes, towards the end of that first set I just started feeling more and more pain. It was, yes, too much, I guess to handle for me at the moment.”

He added, “Yes, unfortunate ending, but I tried.”

Zverev Defends Djokovic

During his post-match interview, Alexander Zverev defended Djokovic and appealed to the crowd to show respect.

He said, “The very first thing I want to say is – Please do not boo a player when he goes out injured. I know everybody paid for tickets and everybody wanted to see a great five-set match. But you have to understand. Novak Djokovic is someone who has given everything to this sport for the past 20 years.”

Zverev further praised Djokovic’s resilience over the years, noting, “He has won this tournament with an abdominal tear and a hamstring tear. So if he cannot continue, that means he cannot continue a tennis match. So, please be respectful and show some love.”

Djokovic’s Ongoing Pursuit of Records

This withdrawal means Djokovic has now gone five Grand Slam tournaments without securing a title, leaving him tied with Margaret Court at 24 Grand Slam wins.

The last time he claimed a Grand Slam was at the 2023 US Open. The setback has raised doubts about whether Djokovic can surpass Court’s record and cement his position as the all-time leader.

Additionally, this loss denied Djokovic a chance to win his 100th career title. Only Roger Federer (102 titles) has reached the century mark in tennis history.

A Cryptic Hint at Retirement

At 37 years old, Djokovic is the last active member of the Big Three, following Rafael Nadal’s retirement last year and Andy Murray stepping away after the 2024 Paris Olympics to join Djokovic’s coaching staff.

When asked if this Australian Open might be his last, Djokovic’s response was cryptic. He said, “I don’t know. There is a chance. Who knows? I will have to see how the season goes. I want to keep going. But whether I’m going to have a revised schedule or not for the next year, I’m not sure.”

“I normally like to come to Australia to play. I’ve had the biggest success in my career here. So I’m fit, healthy, motivated. I don’t see a reason why I wouldn’t come. But there’s always a chance, yeah,” he added.

Zverev’s Path Ahead

Zverev, currently ranked World No. 2 and a two-time Grand Slam runner-up, advances to the final. He will face the winner of the other semi-final between Jannik Sinner and Ben Shelton.

Last year, Zverev reached the semi-finals in Melbourne but lost a five-set thriller to Daniil Medvedev after holding a two-set lead. This marks his first Australian Open final, with a chance to claim his maiden Grand Slam title.

Djokovic’s Legacy in Focus

Despite this setback, Djokovic’s contributions to tennis remain unparalleled. A record 10-time Australian Open winner, he has consistently dominated the sport for over two decades.

However, with injuries becoming a recurring challenge and younger players rising to prominence, the question of how much longer Djokovic will compete looms large.

As Djokovic contemplates his future, fans and experts alike will watch closely to see if he can bounce back, break Margaret Court’s record, and add more milestones to his illustrious career.