Crowd Boos as Ten-Time Champion Exits; Zverev Praises Serb’s Two-Decade Legacy
Novak Djokovic’s pursuit of an 11th Australian Open title came to a dramatic and controversial end on Friday when he retired hurt during his semi-final clash against Alexander Zverev at Rod Laver Arena. The Serbian superstar, who lost the opening set in a tie-break 7-5, left the court to a chorus of boos from some sections of the crowd, marking an unceremonious conclusion to his campaign.
Djokovic, visibly struggling with a groin injury sustained in his quarter-final against Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz, played the match with noticeable tape and a bandage on his upper thigh. Despite the injury, the 36-year-old delivered an impressive performance during the grueling 81-minute opening set before conceding the set with a missed volley. Immediately afterward, he crossed the net to embrace Zverev, signaling his retirement from the match.
The crowd’s reaction drew criticism from Zverev during his on-court interview. “The very first thing I want to say is, please guys, don’t boo a player when he goes out with an injury,” the second-seeded German said, eliciting applause from the majority in attendance.
“I know everyone paid for tickets and wanted to see a great five-set match, but you’ve got to understand—Novak Djokovic is someone who has given this sport absolutely everything for the past 20 years.”
Djokovic’s retirement overshadowed what had been another remarkable run at Melbourne Park. Earlier in the tournament, he defeated third seed Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling quarter-final and made headlines for refusing an on-court interview, citing perceived disrespect from a local broadcaster.
The incident marks a bittersweet ending for Djokovic at the Australian Open, a tournament where he has historically reigned supreme but now leaves in disappointment and amidst controversy.
