Novak Djokovic has sparked fresh injury concerns after missing his scheduled practice session at Melbourne Park on Wednesday, just two days before his Australian Open semi-final clash with Alexander Zverev.
The 37-year-old’s absence from training follows his gruelling three-hour-and-37-minute quarter-final victory over Carlos Alcaraz on Tuesday, where he summoned the magic of old.
The former world No 1 appeared to struggle with a thigh injury during his four-set triumph.
During the opening set against Alcaraz, Djokovic required a medical timeout when trailing 4-5.
Novak Djokovic has sparked fresh injury concerns after missing his scheduled practice session at Melbourne Park on Wednesday, just two days before his Australian Open semifinal clash with Alexander Zverev
REUTERS
The Serbian returned to court with heavy strapping on his upper left thigh.
The injury continued to trouble him throughout the match, prompting him to take painkillers before the fourth set.
Despite the physical setback, Djokovic managed to secure an impressive 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory, marking his 13th Australian Open semi-final appearance.
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Novak Djokovic was forced to use painkillers during his Australian Open win over Carlos Alcaraz
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Speaking to Eurosport after the match, Djokovic revealed he had contemplated retiring from the contest.
“Maybe they expected me to retire. I have to admit that I was considering that. I didn’t know how I’d react,” he said.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion remained defiant about his upcoming semi-final challenge, too.
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“A great win. Very proud of this performance,” he remarked.
“I keep on going. I’ve got another paramount challenge on Friday against Zverev, who is in red-hot form. It’s just trying to be able to move now and produce my best tennis.”
The injury has sparked controversy within tennis circles, with legend John McEnroe warning Alcaraz not to be ‘fooled’ during the opening set.
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Former US Open champion Andy Roddick also expressed skepticism about the severity of Djokovic’s condition.
“He was moving as well as I’ve seen Novak move in 18 months, maybe two years. It didn’t work that way in my career. If I pulled a groin, it kinda tended to stay pulled and maybe get worse,” Roddick said.
Following his victory, Djokovic directed an emotional roar towards Andy Murray, later explaining the gesture.
Novak Djokovic is set to face Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals of the Australian Open on Friday
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“We face challenges every single day. People don’t see that obviously,” Djokovic said.
The Serbian praised Murray’s commitment to his career and the tournament.
“He’s been as committed to my career and this tournament as he can be. He accepted to work with me. He’s giving all his support to me, to the whole team, and trying to make it work. This was a huge win for all of us.”