Novak Djokovic retired injured after losing the first set 7-6(5) to Alexander Zverev on Friday during the Australian Open semi-final game. The German, now through to his maiden Australian Open final, will face either Jannik Sinner or Ben Shelton in the title clash. For Djokovic, the defeat means his quest for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title will have to wait until the French Open.

Concerns about Djokovic’s left thigh had lingered since his grueling quarter-final win against Carlos Alcaraz. The 37-year-old Serb had taken a medical timeout during that match and skipped a practice session before his semi-final. Entering Rod Laver Arena with his thigh heavily strapped, Djokovic initially showed no visible discomfort. However, late in the first set, his movement began to falter.

The set ended with Djokovic netting a routine forehand volley, after which he approached Zverev to concede the match. The crowd reacted with a mix of gasps and boos as Djokovic made his exit.

Later, Djokovic revealed he had been battling a torn muscle and that continuing would have been physically impossible. “I knew even if I won the first set, it would be a huge uphill battle to stay physically fit for another two, three or four hours,” Djokovic admitted. “I just didn’t have it in the tank today.”

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Zverev expressed surprise at Djokovic’s retirement but acknowledged the Serb’s reduced mobility in the tiebreak. “I thought it was a high-level first set,” Zverev said. “But in the tiebreak, he was not moving well. I did see him struggle more,” he added.

The German also called out sections of the crowd for jeering Djokovic’s retirement. “Please don’t boo a player when he goes out with an injury. Novak has given everything to this sport for 20 years. Show some respect,” the player said.

Earlier on Friday, Zverev showcased his resilience, dominating the tiebreak with 24 winners and setting himself up for a shot at his long-awaited Grand Slam glory.